INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — When fitness mixes with fundraising in central Indiana, the result is often a “fun run,” but when Eagle Creek Park is the venue, it’s a fun row, too.

The Iron Eagle Paddle & Run is set for 8 a.m. Saturday.

The first of three segments is a 2.6-mile run that starts at Eagle Creek Park Beach, winds its way north through the park’s trail system, and stops at the launch point for the second segment: a 1.5-mile paddling in a kayak or canoe.

The third and final segment returns to the trails, with a 2.6-mile run that’s a reversal of the original route. Registrants can tackle the whole course alone or team up with others.

“This is for anyone at any fitness level,” Eagle Creek Foundation’s Adam Hibshman promised viewers on WISH-TV’s Daybreak. “You could do the whole thing: the run, paddle, and run all by yourself. Or if you’re like me, and you haven’t been in a kayak all summer, I’m teaming up with one of our board members. He’s going to do the run on both sides, and I’m just paddling in the middle!”

Hibshman insists that you don’t need to consider yourself a “rower” to paddle portion of the Iron Eagle. He also says not to worry if you don’t have a boat, because Eagle Creek Outfitters will happily rent you one and donate part of the proceeds back to the cause.

Organizers say the dollars raised through the event directly benefit the park.

“In early July, we finished a project that was funded entirely by Iron Eagle,” Hibshman says, explaining that all the money goes to the Trail Maintenance Fund. “We have this beautiful big staircase in what used to be the most worn out, worst part of the trails. And now it’s just gorgeous. It was designed by some volunteers that were civil engineers, so, it’s this beautiful part of the park. We’re very proud that it was funded by folks here at Iron Eagle.”

At this point, registration costs $80 per person, plus boat rental if you don’t bring your own. If you enjoy the event, Hibshman urges you to register early for the next edition.

“I think it’s as low as $50 if you sign up when we first release the information. And, you know, we just kind of gradually increase the price so we can collect more dollars for the trails!”

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