Mercer Island CrossFit continues to expand their reach on Mercer Island. The group, which offers regular workouts at the Jewish Community Center, is hosting a new event, likely the first of it’s kind on the Island.

The Mercer Island CrossFit 5k Challenge will take place on Saturday, June 30.

“As far as I know, it’s the first ever of it’s kind,” said Mercer Island CrossFit owner Corey McGee. Runners of even the most casual nature are attracted to 5k races, and CrossFit continues to grow in popularity, so the idea to combine the two seemed natural.

“Everyone loves 5k runs and CrossFit is becoming a very popular sport with many different weight lifting competitions,” said McGee. “But no one (that I know of) has combined the two.”

The event, sponsored by Advantage PT, begins at 8:30 a.m. with the first heat. Participants will do six half mile loops with CrossFit movements between each lap. There are five stations to squat, thrust, and press as part of the workout of the day – known as the WOD in the world of CrossFit – and will be announced the week before the event. Even those new to CrossFit will be able to compete, said McGee.

Heats will run every 45 minutes with 15 pope per heat. Prizes will be given to the top men and women finishers, including gear from Mount Plus Gear, a massage from Mercer Wellness and more. Registration for the event is $35.

To register for the event, or to learn more visit the CrossFit 5k Challenge site. Space is very limited and registration early is encouraged.