As a child, I fondly remember my father bragging about his success in regard to his annual company "field day". And how could I ever forget that, one year in specific, he ran his fastest 5-mile finish time ever (a story I have heard more times than a total of all of my fingers and toes)? I recall how "cool" I thought it was that my way old parents did the stuff that we kids did in gym class too, even if just once a year. Ironically, the company RCI (Resort Condominiums International) where I teach lunch time fitness classes, mentioned that they participate in the same thing my dad was boasting for years. I took this rare opportunity to ask if I could horn in on the action!

What I am speaking of is called the Indiana Corporate Challenge. Let me give you a little background on this glorious occasion. The event is facilitated by the Indiana Sports Corporation. On their website, they describe their wonderful mission: "Indiana Sports Corporation is the amateur sports champion, stimulating economic growth, inspiring healthy kids, and creating vibrant communities throughout Indiana. . . founded in 1979 as the nation's first sports commission. Our events are broadcast all over the world and bring national and international attention to the area." Their current main events include the 2012 XLVI Super Bowl, Men and Women's Final Four, and the Big Ten Tournaments.

Obviously the Corporate Challenge is small potatoes when held in comparison to those Goliath events previously mentioned, but that is the whole point. . . It promotes healthy lifestyles, friendly competition, office camaraderie and a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community.

Up to 100 central Indiana businesses and around 4000+ participants "compete" at the Challenge held at IUPUI's Track and Soccer Stadium. The team results are based upon a point system which depends on industry type and number of employees. The events range from sprint relays, corn hole, tug of war, team cycling, Frisbee toss and even bowling. There is truly something for everyone, and if you aren't into the athletic events, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer at registration, set-up/break down, water station, and dozens of other areas. It is TRULY adult field day (which was shockingly my favorite day of the school year)!

As I previously mentioned, the companies can also gain points for charitable actions. These include donations to the Sports Equipment for Kids Program, Gleaners Food Bank, and the Central Indiana Regional Blood Center. This is such a great way for these wonderful programs to gain additional assets and exposure to thousands of people and their families. What a great idea!

My event was the 5-mile run. It was the first event of what was to be a long day of fun. I drove in on a dark, chilly morning and was definitely anxious. Not knowing what to expect as my team consisted of 3 other males I had never met. We all briefly spoke before we headed out. The course was fun and went all over our lovely downtown and I had a big smile on my face when I finished being cheered on by my RCI company "co-workers." What is funny is how things like this bring people together so naturally and easily. Those guys, who I had just met for one minute that morning, and I have been e-mailing and we have become friends. How easy was that?

Here is my final thought: It is great to get involved in things; especially if they entail what you are not normally accustomed to. It keeps one young, honest, and you might meet a new wonderful person who you otherwise never would have encountered. Whether it be athletic or not, keep searching for a new adventure. After all, when you stop learning, you stop living!

If you would like to volunteer or have your company join in on the fun go to: www.isccorporatechallenge.com