ST. JOHN'S, Antigua - The Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) has added a new activity to its annual Road Show calendar of events. A 5K Run/Walk will this year form part of the 2009 Road Show as MBS steps up its efforts to promote the healthy and fun aspects of regular physical activity.

This first ever MBS 5K Run/Walk is scheduled for Sunday, 21st June 2009 - Fathers Day and will commence at 4:00pm with a warm up exercise session at the former Pitch Restaurant on Burma Road. The 5K Run/Walk will end at Jabbawock Beach. To make the Run/Walk a special event, Fathers who bring their children will receive special recognition. Participants can win prizes in various other categories including first person to cross the finish line and the youngest athletes. Persons desirous of participating can pick up their registration form at the MBS' headquarters on Nevis Street or on the MBS website www.mbs.gov.ag. A nominal entry fee of $10.00 will be charged per person.

MBS is encouraging employees within business establishments and social groups to participate in the 5k Run/Walk as they stand to benefit from group discounts. Research shows that employees who engage in regular physical activity tend to be more productive in the work place.

Healthcade is the next activity on the 2009 Road Show calendar of events. On Saturday 27th June 2009 at 11:00am a convoy of vehicles will leave the MBS Headquarters and move through the streets of St. John's promoting healthy living, the benefits of regular exercise and proper nutrition and the upcoming public medical screenings occurring at the end of June at strategic locations throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

The community health fairs which are part of the MBS Road Show will conduct blood cholesterol, blood glucose tests and provide breast and prostate examinations among others at four (4) venues in Antigua and Barbuda. Screenings will be held on Sunday 28th June 2009 at the Villa Primary school from 2 to 6 pm, then on Tuesday 30th June 2009 at the Cobbs Cross Primary School from 4 to 8 pm. The final screening in Antigua will be held on Thursday, 2nd July, 2009 at the St. Mary's School of Excellence, Bolans from 4 to 8pm. On Monday 6th July 2009 the MBS team will travel to Barbuda to hold similar screenings. There will also be lots of activities for children at the community health fairs, including salad eating contests, exercises competition and face painting.

The 2009 MBS Road Show which runs from 18th June to 6th July 2009 is being held under theme Come follow M.E. and keep healthy.