Alissa's challenge
ONE of Maclean's favourite daughters, who touched the lives of so many before her own was tragically cut short, continues to inspire Clarence Valley residents.
Alissa Marshall died in April after her car collided inexplicably with a concrete truck on Yamba Rd.
She had recently returned to Australia after spending three months in Cambodia where she taught poverty stricken children through Opportunity Cambodia.
On Saturday, more than 30 people took part in the spring 2012 Your Best Body Fitness and Weightloss Challenge to raise funds for the Alissa Project, a local charity established to continue her dedicated work with an education centre in Cambodia.
Organised by Dane Mitchell of Peak Health in Yamba, the fitness and weightloss challenge has already raised more than $2000.
Mr Mitchell, who was good friends with Alissa, said he was ecstatic with the number of people who participated on the weekend.
"We have 40 people registered for the challenge and the turnout on Saturday was awesome," he said.
"The challenge is an eight-week fitness and lifestyle change competition. It is run by Peak Health each year to raise money for worthwhile local causes.
"I knew Alissa, she meant so much to so many in the community and Peak Health saw the Alissa Project as a fantastic cause to support."
The fitness and weight loss challenge has previously raised more than $10,000 for local charities, he said.
Limited positions are still available for anyone wanting to join.
"We do a lot of bodyweight exercises in the challenge and promote the importance of health and fitness.
"By registering, you are not only making a donation to the Alissa Project, you are also working towards achieving a healthier lifestyle," he said.
The challenge will be held at Peak Health in Yamba at 9am on Saturdays and 6.30pm on Tuesdays.
To register for the spring 2012 Your Best Body Fitness and Weightloss Challenge, visit lowerclarenceybb.com or call 6646 9546.
Registration costs $97. All proceeds go towards the Alissa Project.
