JOG, inc., or Joggers of God, in Cuba is teaming with the Route 66 Fanning Outpost General Store to sponsor a unique four-mile “straight shot” run to the distinctive 42-foot steel rocking chair that looms over Route 66, 4 miles west of central Cuba. The 2010 race is slated for March 27, 2010, rain or shine, at 9:00 am.  It will start from Britton Funeral Home at 904 W. Washington.
            Cuba, designated “Route 66 Mural City,” by the Missouri Legislature for its 12 outdoor murals is an attraction for travelers who stop to visit the city’s artwork.  The commissioning of the murals by Viva Cuba, a local beautification organization, encouraged additional paintings and sculptures inside and outside businesses throughout the town as the community embraced the idea of public art.
            According to race director Brad Austin, “This is a chance to combine both the running, which our group loves, and the town’s art with a fun event to benefit the community.”  The money made from the race will be donated to a charity which will benefit the Cuba community. 
            JOG, inc, organized in 2008 when a band of Christian runners/walkers formed a group to share exercise and the beauty of God that they saw while they were running. The group participates in twice weekly runs, and the 2010 Race to the Rocker will be their 2nd annual event.  Big River Running Company will provide timing equipment for the race.
            Dan Sanazaro, owner of the Route 66 Fanning Outpost General Store, who conceived of the giant rocker as a means of attracting travelers to his gift and convenience store and adjoining archery and taxidermy center, sees the event as a way to celebrate the birthday of the rocker, erected on April 1, 2008.
            “This is a way for us to celebrate the rocker and help give back to the community,” states Sanazaro.  Sanazaro applied to the Guinness organization to achieve official recognition for the rocker.
            The race t-shirt features the distinctive rocker, and the race’s goal will be what JOG,inc. stresses in their written guidelines when they encourage members “to run, walk, be healthy, and have fun.”
            This promises to be a fun run with a little extra pizzazz for runners and viewers alike.
            To register online visit, www.GetMeRegistered.com under March events. Or contact Rachelle Austin at rachaustin2000@yahoo.com or call her at 573- 881-1581. For information on Cuba, visit cubamochamber.com.