Huntington Beach, Calif. - R.D. Olson Construction, specialists in building hotels, restaurants and retail outlets, will sponsor the first California Fitness Challenge 2000. More than 500 high-level athletes are expected to compete for the title of all-around fittest team and individual in the state, said event directors, world-reowned fitness experts John Spencer Ellis and Bryan Rodenkirk.

Some of the proceeds will go to the Challenged Athletes Foundation, which fosters self-esteem in persons with disabilities and teaches them to set and reach goals through athletic competition. Rudy Garcia-Tolson, who has won many swimming awards and competed in several celebrity triathlon relay teams although he lost his legs from the knees down to a crippling disease, has been named the honorary starter. Garcia-Tolson is just one of the many who have benefited from the foundation.

The competition will be held on Sunday, May 7 at the Huntington Beach pier. It will consist of a three-mile run, one minute of pull-ups and push-ups and culminate with what has been termed the Insane Obstacle Course.

"It's an honor to sponsor this exciting event," said Dennis Reyling, president, R.D. Olson Construction. "It will be rewarding to support people with disabilities who want to compete athletically."

This one-of-its-kind event begins at 7:30 a.m. with the three-mile run. Although the event will feature some of California's most respected athletes, anyone may participate or attend. There will be divisions for the general public, fire fighters, law enforcement, lifeguards, military and certified fitness trainers.

For more information, please contact Endurance Plus Sports and Fitness Promotions at (877) 348-6692, ext. 1, online at www.fitnesschallenge.ocnow.com or email john@enduranceplus.com.