Walk, run or bike to better health during Wellness Weekend, which will combine road races, health screenings and activities for all ages.

An estimated 5,000 people, including racers, spectators and volunteers, are expected to take part on June 7 and 8, said coordinator Doug McFarland.

The event will benefit the YMCA of Central Maine and L/A Trails, a group promoting biking and walking in the Twin Cities.

“Our ultimate goal is to make this an annual event and bring in more activities each year. We need to promote healthy lifestyles in the community,” said Jim Lawler, executive director at the YMCA.

Positive impact

Chip Morrison, president of the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce, said he believed Wellness Weekend would have a positive impact on the health of the community.

“It’s a good idea for people to get out and think about their health and the positive things they need to do to maintain it,” Morrison said. “It’s a reminder to us all about what’s important.”

McFarland, health and fitness director at the YMCA, agreed. “If the event is successful this year and we have all our sponsors on board, we hope to do it every year.”

Activities

Wellness Weekend is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday with the Sun Journal Lake Auburn Bike Race. Race categories, ranging from Junior 18 and under to Women Pro, will ride the 11-mile route around Lake Auburn throughout the day.

Events and activities for the entire family will also be held on Sunday at Auburn’s Festival Plaza and YMCA at 62 Turner St., Auburn. The Country Kitchen Great Falls Criterium Bike Race will begin at 8 a.m., followed by the St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center 3K Fun Walk at 9 a.m., Central Maine Orthopedics 5K Run at 10 a.m., and the Emerson Toyota Kid’s Bike Race at 11:30 a.m.

Free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings provided by St. Mary’s Medical Center will be located inside the YMCA on Sunday. Central Maine Medical Center will also sponsor an educational exhibit about the heart in front of Key Bank on Turner Street. Food vendors and sponsors will be located at both places.

Music and entertainment will be provided by Nick Knowlton of Music Connection. The Northeast Trick Stars Freestyle Bike Show, sponsored by Emerson Toyota, will be held at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday and will feature an aerial exhibition.