Baxter Springs/Columbus, Kan. -- Horses of Hope Riding Center, Inc. in Baxter Springs is inviting area residents, businesses and organizations to get involved with the True Grit Health & Wellness Challenge, which is partially funded by the Health & Wellness Advocates of Cherokee County.  

The six-week fitness challenge is a free training/exercise program geared towards inspiring individuals to work towards a goal of completing the 5-kilometer, 1-mile or 1/2-mile relay at the “Heroes From ALL Walks of Life” event to be held on April 20.

According to Head Riding Instructor Vallerie Sweeton, the " Heroes From ALL Walks of Life" is a fundraiser for a new program at Horses of Hope for military vets. 

People who participate in the six-week challenge can take part in the 5K or 1-mile run walk for a discounted rate of $20.  Participants in the half-mile relay can take part free of charge. 

The first informational meeting will be held March 13 from 11:30-1:30 p.m. at the Columbus City Park. This is a come and go time frame to help with varying lunch breaks.   Be sure to bring walking shoes to participate.

Additional sessions are scheduled at 11 a.m. on March 16 & 23; 11:30 am- 1:30 pm April 3, 10 & 17 plus a meeting at 12:30 p.m. April 13. 

The “Heroes From ALL Walks of Life” events will get underway at 9 a.m. April 20. “To Finsih is to Win” is the motto for this 6-week program developed to encourage participants of any age, those who use a wheelchair, walker or any other assistive device, and those with walking, running or healthy aspirations.

For more information call Sweeton at Horses of Hope, 620-674-3458.