ST. MICHAELS, Ariz. – On Friday evening, August 29, the Fort Defiance Plateau was blessed with rain. Despite the rain delay, excitement filled the air as families gathered for a community bike 10K race and 5K run.
Among the crowd of eager participants were Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren, both ready with their helmets on, their running shoes laced were poised to join in the fun.
Instead of standing on the sidelines, President Nygren chose to be shoulder-to-shoulder with the community, pedaling and running step for step in the long, muddy stretch of dirt road with fellow bikers and runners.
“This is what it’s all about, being together, moving together, and cheering each other on,” President Nygren said. “When we support each other like this, we show our strength as a Nation, especially in the rain.”
The event became more than just a race.
Participants proudly rode alongside President Nygren and First Lady and encouraged each other as they transitioned from bikes to running and bikes again.
Each participant gave it their all, especially during the last mile stretch before crossing the finish line.
President Nygren’s presence reminded everyone that health and wellness can also be fun, filled with laughter, encouragement, and community spirit.
“I’m grateful for the bike that the nonprofit Silver Stallion and its executive director, Tanisha Bitsóí, donated to First Lady and me to use,” President Nygren said. “Silver Stallion’s mission is to educate and empower Navajo youth and young adults in the bicycle mechanic and specialty coffee service industries.”
At the end, participants gathered to shared smiles, encouragement and hugs as they completed a total of nine miles. Three miles of biking, three miles of running and another set of three miles of biking to finish.
Every step forward is a victory, especially as a community.
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