Women's running group aims to raise money to fight childhood obesity

AHWATUKEE, AZ - Susan Loken has combined her passions for running and reducing childhood obesity in Arizona.

She's gathered a group of gals and formed the women's running group, Sole Sisters.

Team members will train three times a week, starting August 4th, in preparation for the Women's Half-Marathon in November.

The route will take runners from Scottsdale to Tempe.

"They're getting friendship and they're getting educated about fitness, said Loken. But, most important, and the best part, is they're helping kids in the community."

Each member of Sole Sisters is required to raise $1000 for the non-profit Chances for Children .

"We go into schools, that wouldn't otherwise be able to afford it, and provide running-fitness programs," said Loken.

Sole Sisters is still recruiting members.

Those who join can expect to get fit, give back and bond with other women.

"After my first marathon, all of a sudden I believed in myself and I believed I could do absolutely anything," said Loken. And, if I can pass that on to two or three or four women, it just makes me feel even better than crossing the finish line of a marathon."