LEWISTON – It was a record year for Get Fit and Win. More than 1,600 Androscoggin County residents began their quest to Get Fit on April 17, up 63 percent.

“This year’s huge participation rate is proof that Maine residents want to take action against the obesity epidemic,” said Jessica Balkun, assistant director of Healthy Androscoggin.

Not only did individuals register, but local employers got into the act as well, with more than half of the participants hearing about the program through their workplace. Sixteen organizations signed on as Get Fit and Win worksites this year – the first year this initiative was offered as a free program to businesses.

Throughout the eight-week program there will be weekly health tips posted on Healthy Androscoggin’s Web site (www.healthyandroscoggin.org) to keep registrants, or anyone else interested, motivated and moving.

To be eligible for cash prizes, participants must be 18, complete an activity log and attend the Get Fit and Win celebration at the Bates College Amphitheater on June 14. Those participants under 18 will be eligible for other prizes, including a grand prize package.

Healthy Androscoggin is a community coalition sponsored in part by the Fund for Healthy Maine, Bureau of Health/State of Maine. Its mission is to promote good health by encouraging tobacco-free lifestyles, healthy eating and physical activity.

To learn more or be a part of the coalition, call 795-5990 or visit the Web site.