PRINCETON NJ Press Release

Princeton YMCA Hosts 8th Annual Bart's Challenge, Raises Nearly $30,000 Towards 2025 Branch Campaign

Princeton, N.J. – September 22, 2025 – Princeton YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, hosted its eighth annual Bart's Challenge competition. This year's event brought together YMCA members and community participants for a fun and inspiring day of fitness and friendly competition.

The 2025 competition featured two heats, one competitive and one recreational across six timed exercises: planks, mountain climbers, sit-ups, push-ups (regular and declined), and chin-ups. Participants competed individually, in pairs, or as part of four-person teams. Winners received special prizes, and all competitors took home a T-shirt and medal. The event drew a diverse group of competitors, volunteers, and spectators.

Celebrating its eighth year, Bart's Challenge successfully raised $29,333 towards Princeton YMCA's 2025 branch campaign goal.

Heather Scapp, District VP of Operations at Bridgewater, Somerville, and Princeton YMCAs emphasized the YMCA's commitment to strengthening the community sharing, "Princeton YMCA strengthens the fabric of our vibrant community by ensuring that everyone has access to the resources, relationships, and opportunities they need to lead, learn, grow, and thrive. It is volunteer-led events like Bart's Challenge that expand access for all ages and abilities to improve their well-being and inspire healthy lifestyles."

Bart's Challenge is named after Bart Talloen, a retired Johnson & Johnson senior executive and fitness enthusiast. Since 2018, Bart has raised more than $275,000 for the YMCA through his athletic pursuits and fundraising efforts.

This year marked the fourth year he has led the annual Bart's Challenge competition, continuing his mission to inspire others to set goals, embrace fitness, and celebrate healthy living as a community. "It has been exciting to watch my vision for Bart's Challenge expand each year," Bart shared. "My hope is to see even more engagement across YMCA branches, community organizations, companies, and schools. By doing so, we can continue to inspire and motivate others to pursue their personal fitness journeys while promoting healthy living as a community."

Greater Somerset County YMCA welcomes community members to join its mission to build stronger, healthier communities. To get involved, visit: https://www.gscymca.org/who-we-are/collaborations-community-support/.