PHOENIX – It was a record-setting day in the Valley of the Sun, as Phoenix Elementary School District #1 students, in conjunction with Fiesta Bowl Charities and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest game of freeze tag.

The event took place with 2,172 students from 13 schools, who came together at Garfield Elementary School in Phoenix to take the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest game of freeze tag. The previous record was set on September 14, 2018, by 1,393 people in Antwerp, Belgium.

"Being out here to set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD inspires children to believe that they can achieve big accomplishments in life," said Mike Nealy, Fiesta Bowl Executive Director. "Establishing a foundation of health and fitness at an early age is important to the Fiesta Bowl, matching the goals of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Phoenix Elementary School District #1."

This "Day of Play" promoted students and teachers to be active and live healthy lifestyles while having fun. The initiative supports Mobilize AZ — BCBSAZ's program to help solve Arizona's most critical health issues: substance use disorder, diabetes and mental health. For more information about the benefits of living healthier and longer, visit azblue.com.
 
"Sharing that physical activity can be fun, enjoyed with friends, and rewarding, is so important to instill in our children at a young age," said Pam Kehaly, President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. "We are so proud of all of the Phoenix Elementary District No. 1 students, along with their amazing teachers, for their great accomplishment in becoming GUINNESS WORLD RECORD holders for the largest game of freeze tag!"

"Thanks to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Fiesta Bowl Charities for such a great day of exercise and fun as we challenged students to set the new record," said Dr. Larry Weeks, Phoenix Elementary School District No. 1 CEO and Superintendent. "We work hard every day to inspire our students to achieve, and this is yet another example of achieving a great accomplishment."

BCBSAZ is also presenting partner for the Fiesta Bowl's extensive year-round volunteer program. Throughout 2019-20, over 4,500 volunteers — BCBSAZ employees and Fiesta Bowl volunteers combined — will spend countless hours to serve the community. The top three BCBSAZ employee volunteers throughout the year will be recognized on field at the 2019 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl.
   
ABOUT THE FIESTA BOWL
The Fiesta Bowl is a world-class community organization that executes innovative experiences, drives economic growth and champions charitable causes, inspiring pride in all Arizonans. As a nonprofit organization, it believes in the importance of community outreach and service. Through charitable giving, the organization strives to enhance Arizona nonprofit organizations that contribute to the success of communities through youth, sports and education. Since 1971, the Fiesta Bowl has worked to increase its footprint across the state and work to benefit Arizonans year round, during and outside of bowl season.
 
ABOUT BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF ARIZONA
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) is committed to helping Arizonans get healthier faster and stay healthier longer. With a focus on connecting people with the care they need, BCBSAZ offers health insurance and related services to more than 1.5 million customers. BCBSAZ, a not-for-profit company, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. The company employs more than 1,800 people in its Phoenix, Chandler, Flagstaff, and Tucson offices. Through advanced clinical programs and community outreach, BCBSAZ is inspiring health. To learn more, visit azblue.com.
 
ABOUT PHOENIX ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT #1
At Phoenix Elementary School District #1, we are Inspiring Every Child to Achieve. Our 14 schools are in the heart of Phoenix. We are right in your neighborhood and accessible by Phoenix Light Rail. We are free. We are public education! We deliver strong academics while integrating the arts, physical education, athletics and club sports. We provide all the support services for our students including free breakfast and lunch, a top-rated before and after school program for children of working parents, as well as nurses, social workers and psychologists to ensure all needs are met. For more information, visit phxschools.org or call 602-523-5757.