Offutt to host Sweetheart 5K

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. James M. Hodgman
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Deployments, moving every few years and the constant hustle and bustle that is the U.S. military way of life can make getting to the gym difficult, but for members of Team Offutt, working out with their friends or loved ones just became easier.

Offutt is set to host the Sweetheart 5K Run/Walk at the Offutt Field House Feb. 6 at 9 a.m. The event, open to everyone, costs $10.

According to field house staff, the Sweetheart 5K will offer people an opportunity to pursue their fitness goals, have fun and even work out with that special someone, something Senior Airman Jennifer L. Lemaire, a linguist with the 338th Combat Training Squadron, said she's looking forward to.

"I think it's important for couples to support one another when it comes to fitness," Airman Lemaire said.

"My husband and I are newly married and more than anything else, getting into a regular workout schedule has been challenging for us. I believe that if we (develop) good habits together they'll last, and have a positive effect on our relationship and this 5K provides an opportunity for just that," she said.

Airman Lemaire, wife of Senior Airman Matthew S. Lemaire, a linguist with the 97th Intelligence Squadron, said she expects to have a great time at the event.

"I (anticipate) having a good time and making some good memories with my husband and friends in addition to getting a good workout," Airman Lemaire said.

Dana L. Arenas, wife of Senior Airman Robert S. Arenas, a linguist with the 97th IS, said she plans on running in the Sweetheart 5K so she can rekindle her love for running.

"I got out of running after the San Diego Marathon in 2002 because I was working and going to school," Mrs. Arenas said.

Shortly thereafter, Mrs. Arenas joined the Air Force where she served nearly two years training to become a linguist at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif. After leaving the Air Force in 2008, Mrs. Arenas gave birth to her daughter Elisa.

Being a mom can make finding time to run difficult, Mrs. Arenas said, but she's hopeful the Sweetheart 5K will give her the boost needed to complete another marathon.

In 2009, 87 people participated in the Sweetheart 5K and Gerald L. Montgomery, a fitness and sports director for the 55th Force Support Squadron, said he expects up to 100 people to participate in this year's race.

"Achieving fitness goals is much easier when you work on them with someone you know, (who is) motivating you and supporting you," Mr. Montgomery said.

The Sweetheart 5K and events like it are a great way to try something new, motivate others and have fun, he added.

Registration for the Sweetheart 5K ends Feb. 3 and members of the Offutt community can register by calling the OFH at 294-5413.