Channel Health Initiative Plans Dallas Event

By Khali Henderson

The Channel Health Initiative, an alliance of vendors and partners in the telecom channel, announced Tuesday that it will be participating in a second event, the Dallas Rock N Roll Half Marathon benefiting the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, March 27.

The Channel Health Initiatives first event was the Las Vegas Rock N Roll Marathon and Half Marathon, Dec. 5.  Participants runners and cheerleaders  included employees, family and friends of initiative founders Telecom Brokerage Inc., Voda Communications and Smoothstone.

In a press statement, the initiative reported that one of the first-time half marathon runners completed the race in 2:20:06. A half marathon is 13.1 miles.

We consider the Channel Health Initiative to be a success, as those who participated in the races had no previous intention of running; it was solely due to the initiative that they came out to Las Vegas,” the organizers said in a press statement.

The Channel Health Initiative was formed in fall 2010 to promote healthy lifestyles in the telecom channel. Initial supporters include TBI, Voda, Smoothstone, ADVODA and XO. (Full disclosure: Channel Partners has committed to be a media sponsor.)

The stated goal is to create a neutral environment where vendors, partners, end users and competitors can work together as a team to become healthier.

Participating in races is one way that the initiative can support that goal, according to Mike Saxby, chief strategy officer for TBI and the branchild of the initiative. Participants need not be experienced. Veteran runners will assist newbies with training regimes and guidance. The Channel Health Initiative also provides discount registration and day-of support and post-race aid.

The Channel Health Initiative is planning additional events in 2011. For information on participating in the Dallas event, visit www.tbicom.com/channel-health-dallas.