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Sports Backers Blog

Anthem Moonlight Ride Helps Family Embrace Active Lifestyle

By: Shihan Wijeyeratne


School, work, long runs, soccer, swimming, summer camps, and baseball, topped off with a family bike ride on the Buttermilk Trail. All this and more is part of a typical week for the Janus family. Since recently moving to the area from Tennessee, Scott and Jennifer Janus have enjoyed continuing their active lifestyles in Powhatan and sharing that passion with their three kids: Julia, age five, and eight-year-old twins John Paul and Jake.

With a mother whose ambition is to complete a marathon in every state (and she is more than halfway to achieving that goal!) and a father who regularly runs half marathons and is a stellar swimmer and triathlete, the Janus kids have a strong foundation of fitness and physical activity to build from. “I think our kids recognize that exercise is something you just do — getting outside is part of our routine as a family,” said Jennifer. “We always try to be active and have fun together!” JanusFamily1

“The kids really enjoy all kinds of physical activity,” Jennifer continued. “They love being with their friends at soccer and baseball practices, and enjoy going for runs or bike rides with their family.”

The family will jump on their bikes for the Anthem Moonlight Ride, on Saturday, August 16, and they see it as yet another way to combine fun and physical activity. Even with the impressive fitness “résumés” that the family has built over the last few years, the Moonlight Ride promises to be a novel experience. “The ride will be a new adventure for us,” said Jennifer. “It will further introduce us to our city, and allow the kids to get out and see some of Richmond at night.”

The Anthem Moonlight Ride takes participants on a scenic route through the near West End, Scott’s Addition, and historic Monument Avenue. The event is family friendly, using a wave start that allows families to stay together and ride comfortably on a closed course free of automobile traffic. Participants can also take part in the Blue Moon Costume and Tacky Light contest, and after the ride, they can enjoy pizza, ice cream, soft drinks, and beer (for the over-21 crowd) at the Agee’s Post-Ride Party.

With a Full Moon (17-mile) course and a Half Moon (8-mile) option, there’s something for everyone. “We signed up for the Anthem Moonlight Ride because it’s something that we can all enjoy,” said Jennifer. “We can ride together, meet new people, and enjoy a night out in the city as a family!”

The Anthem Moonlight Ride takes place Saturday, August 16, at 8:00pm. Registration is available online at www.sportsbackers.org until 11:59 pm on August 13th. Walk-up registration will also be available on site at Sports Backers Stadium on August 15 and August 16.

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