As the Southeast Georgia Health System 2015 Bridge Run approaches, Erin VanRyn, a resident of West Chester, PA, will aim to be in Brunswick on Feb. 14 for the race. “This will be my second attempt. Last year I got stuck in a terrible snowstorm in Pennsylvania and could not fly out. I had T-shirts made for my dad and I was going to surprise him the night before the race.”

VanRyn’s t-shirts for the 2014 Bridge Run read ‘I ran the Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run with my 72 year old dad’ and ‘I’m 72 and ran the Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run.’ Her parents, originally from Pennsylvania, recently retired and reside at Marsh’s Edge on St. Simons Island.

Although she’s yet to participate in the Bridge Run,VanRyn loves the scenery and view from the top of the Sidney Lanier Bridge. At it’s highest point, the bridge measures 480 feet high, making it the tallest span in the state. “I have only experienced it once when my dad took me there on my last visit to St. Simons Island. It was windy but the scenery was amazing and made me forget about the wind and hill incline,” says VanRyn.

VanRyn said she first became interested in the Bridge Run, which benefits the Health System’s cancer care programs, through her father, Harry Boal. At age 72, he plans to participate in the race with his daughter this year. “He’s my inspiration,” says VanRyn.

Krista Robitz, director, Development, Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation and Bridge Run chairperson, explains that although the Bridge Run is considered challenging and should not be attempted by those not properly trained there will be plenty of other activities for the entire family. “The 5K Walk offers an opportunity for everyone, no matter their age or athletic ability, to experience the fun and sportsmanship of the event, as well as to participate in raising funds for the Health System’s cancer care programs. There’s also music, food and a Vendors and Runners’ Expo with lots of shopping opportunities from running shoes to sunglasses to motorcycles!”

To help prepare for the Bridge Run, VanRyn highly recommends training sessions. “Train on hills and inclines; enjoy the first run down, because you have to turn around and go back up.”

“We’re very excited about the race this year and thankful for all of the participants, both residents of the local community and those who come from out of town to join in the fun,” adds Robitz.

The registration fee for both the run and the walk is $25 per person before Jan. 13, $30 January 13-February 3, and increases to $40 on Feb. 4 through the deadline of Feb. 11. There is a $2 discount per person for teams of 10 or more. Those competing in the 5K run must register by Feb. 11, through www.sghs.org or www.active.com, or by calling 800-537-5142, ext. 2786.

Those participating in the 5K walk may register on the day of the event from 7-9 a.m. Because of the steep grade on the bridge, baby strollers, running strollers or roller blades are NOT permitted during the Bridge Run. For more information, please call 912-466-BRUN (2786).