VSU Hosts First Water for Life Event Nov. 22

VALDOSTA - Several student organizations will host the first ever Water for Life celebration on Saturday, Nov. 22. at Valdosta State University.

Members of the VSU and local communities have a chance to participate in a sprint triathlon and concert benefit. The triathlon will include a 300-yard swim, a six-mile bike ride and a two-mile run starting at 6:50 a.m. at Campus Recreation with a registration fee of $25 for individuals and $50 for relay teams of three.

People are encouraged to register before Friday, Nov. 14, in order to receive a free t-shirt and a guaranteed place in the competition. Registered members must be at least 15 years of age and provide his/her own bike and department of transportation-approved helmet. Participants can register late from 6:30-6:50 a.m. on competition day.

A free concert will also take place on the front lawn from 3-8 p.m. by local band Soular 7. Students are encouraged to bring a blanket and enjoy the casual community event.

The triathlon will benefit WaterAid America, which focuses on improving water quality and sanitation for the underprivileged. The organization reaches out to 17 different countries and has already improved water quality for more than 11 million people. The foundation installs sustainable technologies to provide clean water access to contaminated communities. Locals install the equipment themselves with facilitation from WaterAid representatives.

“I decided before graduating in December how cool it would be if we could get a bunch of people to do something healthy in the community to raise a bunch of money to contribute to the cause of healthier living,” Ben said.

Call Ben Hortman for registration details, more information and the specified bike/run route at (678) 873-3898 or visit http://web.me.com/brhortman . Businesses and individuals can donate to the cause at firstgiving.com/benjaminhortman .