Tea wins Wellmark ‘Set the Pace’ Challenge for 2022 Grand Blue Mile
TEA, SOUTH DAKOTA — Wellmark® Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® announced the community of Tea will receive $10,000 for winning the Wellmark Set the Pace Challenge as part of the 2022 Grand Blue Mile. The annual challenge encourages South Dakotans to develop sustainable, healthy habits highlighted by participation in the Grand Blue Mile.
“Tea is thrilled to be named the 2022 Wellmark Set the Pace Challenge winner,” said Hallie Munoz, City of Tea Park & Recreation director. “We sincerely appreciate Wellmark sponsoring this initiative to promote healthy lifestyles for South Dakotans and look forward to using the award funding to make a meaningful difference in our community.”
The $10,000 awarded to Tea Park & Recreation can be used on a project that promotes safe and accessible places in which to be active, such as a park, playground, pool or trail.
Tea had the highest percentage of its residents participating in the Grand Blue Mile (either virtually or in-person) — measured by the number of registrants for a given ZIP code against the community’s total population. In all, nearly 150 communities were represented in this year’s challenge.
“Wellmark and the entire Grand Blue Mile team applauds the residents of Tea and the collective commitment to the health and vitality of their community they displayed in winning this award,” said Chris Verlengia, Wellmark’s marketing activation and alliance lead and Grand Blue Mile co-race director. “We hope their example inspires other communities to continue embracing this friendly challenge and prioritizing their own well-being.”
