AVONDALE, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — A local fitness club hosted a “Hero Workout Fundraiser” to benefit the family of fallen MCSO deputy Juan “Johnny” Ruiz, who was attacked by a suspect earlier this month.
The Fuego Fitness Club hosted the workout on Sunday morning and afternoon. All workout increments and times related to Deputy Ruiz, for example, the club had participants do 10 pull ups, in honor of Deputy Ruiz’s end of watch date, 10/11/21. Members also did 22 sit ups, reflecting Ruiz’s badge number, #S2212. The full list of workouts included the 10 pull ups, 22 sit ups, a 400 meter run, 11 burpees and 12 jumping squats. Participants were encouraged to wear a weight vest if they had one as well.
Only with the sheriff’s office for three years, the 45-year-old Ruiz was an older recruit. But that didn’t deter him from putting forth his best efforts.
Groups of law enforcement officers, citizens and gym regulars participated in the event. Some were seen with shirts honoring Ruiz, with the words “fallen but not forgotten” on the back. Some law enforcement officers were seen in full uniform, doing sit-ups and workouts with all their gear.
“Just to see people come together and not be divided at all and they come together for one cause, and that’s to honor the gentleman that put his life on the line every single day and all law enforcement…it’s a huge honor for us to have it here,” said gym manager Jenifer Macias.
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