BALTIMORE, MD (October 1, 2008) -- The Maryland State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness is accepting applications for the fourth annual Physical Activity Excellence Awards.  The awards recognize exemplary efforts to promote physical activity among Maryland youths, adults and older adults. 

Individuals, organizations, agencies, schools, communities and businesses in Maryland whose dedication, vision, and service have helped increase physical activity among Maryland citizens are eligible to receive the award. 

Applications are available at www.marylandfitness.org and are due by December 1.  Nominations can be made by anyone that knows the nominees accomplishments.  The application is one page and must be accompanied by two references. 

The council will recognize one individual and one group winner in each of three age categories: youth (17 and under), adult (18-49 years) and older adult (50 and older). Winners will be presented with a state proclamation by the council in Annapolis in January. 

The award was created in 2005 as a way to showcase best practices of programs and projects in Maryland that promote physical activity. 

Winners from last year include: Weigh Smart ™ program of Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital of Baltimore in the group youth category; Dr. Matthew Hahn of Hancock in the individual adult category; the Town of Ocean City in the group adult category; and Fit and Firm senior fitness class of the Pasadena Senior Center and Anne Arundel Community College in the group older adult category.   

For more information please contact Ann Walsh, staff person to the Maryland State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness, at 410-767-5283 or AWalsh@dhmh.state.md.us.