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February 20, 2004/Shevat 28 5764, Vol. 56, No. 22
VOSJCC director fights cancer with climbing
JENNIFER GOLDBERG
Staff Writer
Every day, hundreds of Valley residents climb local peaks for fun, exercise and fresh air. On Saturday, Feb. 28, more than 20 members of the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center will ascend South Mountain for an even better reason: supporting the effort to fight cancer.
When the American Cancer Society holds its 21st annual Climb to Conquer Cancer that morning, VOSJCC director of sports, recreation and fitness Terry Smallin will be there, leading the pack. This marks the second year Smallin has organized the VOSJCC's "Team J" for the climb and trained some of the team members for the event.
Smallin, a lifelong exer-ciser, has years of experience preparing himself and other people for difficult physical competitions. He joined a running club years ago while living in Utica, N.Y., and got hooked on competitive running. Smallin parti-cipated in numerous races, including marathons, then was introduced to the Ironman triathalon compe-tition by a colleague. This grueling competition includes a 2.4-mile ocean swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a full 26.2-mile marathon.
In his position at the VOSJCC, Smallin has train-ed members for marathons, Ironman, Olympic distance and more. Most recently, he trained several members for the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon on Jan. 12.
Smallin says that his training programs, whether for marathons, Ironman competitions or the Climb to Conquer Cancer, are all "based on your fitness level and your heart rate, because your heart rate ties directly into your fitness level." He devises programs incorporating cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility.
One of Smallin's primary motivations for getting involved with the Climb to Conquer Cancer was his own triumph over the disease. Six years ago, Smallin was diagnosed with tonsular cancer and carcinoma lymphoma of the throat.
"Last year, my wellness and fitness director at the time brought (the event) to my attention. She was aware that I am a cancer survivor, and that I like to try to tie things in and do things for the Cancer Society, both on an in-dividual basis and with groups."
The VOSJCC then pub-licized "Team J," and got a good response from members interested in participating in the climb.
This year, Smallin says that "Team J" will comprise more than 20 VOSJCC members. Team members may par-ticipate one of several activities on South Mountain: either walking, hiking or running up the peak. While only VOSJCC members may participate with "Team J," other interested individuals may join the Climb to Conquer Cancer by con-tacting the American Cancer Society.
Details
- What: American Cancer Society Climb to Conquer Cancer
- Where: South Mountain Park, 10209 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
- When: 6 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28
- Cost: $35
- Call: Terry Smallin, VOSJCC, 480-483-7121. American Cancer Society, 602-224-0524.
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