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Monday, October 27, 2008 10:45 AM Robin Run raises $26,000 for Wilson YMCA By Janet Conner-Knox Daily Times Staff Writer Friends who knew Robin Givens, and those who wanted to help raise money in her memory, came out Saturday for the 5th annual Robin Run. Givens, a Wilson resident who lost her battle with lung cancer in 2005, was a fitness instructor, runner, biker, swimmer and supporter of the Wilson Family YMCA. Hundreds of Wilsonians took part in a bike ride and a 3-mile fun run. For the first time, a four-hour spinning marathon was held at the YMCA on Airport Boulevard as part of the fundraiser. All of the money raised goes to help build a new Wilson YMCA, and one of the rooms will be named after Givens. This will be a state-of-the-art facility Wilson has never had before said, Kathie Davis, YMCA director. In all, $26,000 was raised, which was about the same amount as last year. "Wilson has been very supportive of our efforts," said Davis. "The community understands what we are trying to accomplish." Thirty-two people plus five instructors, all spinning to hit music from the 1960's to the 1990's, raised over $1,000. Spinning instructor David Santiago, 51, said the music helps riders keep going. "It's something about the music that will make you want to ride in time with it," he said. "And that makes the ride less boring," One rider didn't need music for motivation. Elizabeth Winstead, who was a friend of Givens, biked for the whole four hours. She was the only one able to go that long. Winstead, an instructor at Barton College, usually works out two hours a day. She said being in shape helped her stay for all four of the spin classes. "I thought it was a wonderful way to remember Robin," said Winstead. "She loved the Y and she was a big supporter. So there was no better way to honor her than to raise money right here in the place she loved so much." Ginny Eagles, a spinning instructor, said raising money for the Robin Run was a great way to begin a fitness regimen. She also participated in the afternoon run. Starting at First Presbyterian Church, the runners followed painted footprints through the neighborhood were Givens lived in Cavalier Terrace. There was a celebration at the end of the run with music, hot dogs and drinks. Matthew Dodd is new to Wilson and a member of the YMCA. He said he didn't know Givens, but had heard her story and decided to do the traditional afternoon run. "I can't think of a better way to honor someone than this," said Dodd. "I can see she is loved by her community by so many people coming out to this event. I am sure she is smiling from heaven." janet@wilsontimes.com | 265-7847 |
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