NEWS RELEASE

Girls Soar Physical Activity Week Kicks Off

(Friday, February 15/08) -- Representatives from HRM Recreation, the Nova Scotia Health Promotion and Protection team, the Halifax Regional School Board, and Active Halifax Communities, along with a number of female students from Cunard Junior High marked the 3rd annual Girls Soar Physical Activity Week at an event today in Halifax.

"The Girls Soar Physical Activity Week is dedicated to increasing opportunities for girls and young women to be active," explains Rachel Bedingfield, Physical Activity Coordinator of the Active Halifax Communities initiative. "We are working to increase the number of female-centered opportunities for physical activity primarily through promotion and education in the Halifax Regional Municipality. The basic principle of female-centered programs is to provide girls and young women with equal access to active opportunities that meet their needs."

Girls between the ages of 6-18 are eligible for all programs offered over the week. Activities range from hiking to yoga to indoor surfing and climbing.
"It's a perfect opportunity to try different activities and all the sessions being offered are free," said Bedingfield. "It's also a great way to meet other girls in your community in a fun and comfortable atmosphere."

Girls Soar Physical Activity Week is one initiative of Active Halifax Communities. It is a partnership among HRM, Halifax Regional School Board, Capital Health and Nova Scotia Department of Health Promotion and Protection. With their participation, Girls Soar showcases activities, facilities and resources available to girls in HRM.

To find out about more about Girls Soar Physical Activity Week, please visit www.activehalifax.ca

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Rachel Bedingfield
Physical Activity Coordinator - Active Halifax Communities
902-490-5447