MCHD Activities Team serves as starters for Double Tunnel Vision 5K 5-18-26

May 18, 2026

MCHD Activities Team serves as starters for Double Tunnel Vision 5K

MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department’s Activities Team used its cannon recently to start the Double Tunnel Vision 5K race sponsored by the Lions Club of Mobile.

The course featured participants running from one end of the Bankhead Tunnel to the other entrance and then returning back. Members of the Activities Team also followed the runners in MCHD golf carts to carry a first aid kit. Proceeds from the Double Tunnel Vision 5K will benefit the sight programs of the Lions Club of Mobile. To learn more about this project, please visit www.lionsclubofmobile.org.

In 2016, an initiative called “MCHD Declares War on Physical Inactivity” began. Dr. Bernard H. Eichold II, then serving as Health Officer for Mobile County, pointed out that Alabama has one of the highest obesity percentages in America.

In an effort to encourage residents to go outside and enjoy our beautiful surroundings while exercising, Dr. Eichold arranged to borrow a Civil War re-enactment cannon to serve as the “starting gun” for the Azalea Trail Run that year. The response was so positive that Dr. Eichold acquired funds to purchase our own weapon to battle obesity, and the “Cannon Team” was formed.

Beginning with a cannon blast, MCHD has engaged in numerous outreach events over the years to promote health and connect with the community, the unit has changed its name to the “Activities Team.”

“The change in obesity rates in Alabama from 2016 to 2025 shows that we must continue creating opportunities for healthier living in our communities” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “Since assuming the role of Health Officer in 2022, I have been proud to support the Activities Team’s mission and to join community events that encourage residents to get outside, enjoy our beautiful surroundings, and stay active. Promoting movement in simple, accessible ways can make a meaningful difference in the health of our county.”

The Lyle Line-Throwing Cannon, which has a 2.5-inch-diameter barrel, was manufactured in the early 1900s by Coston. It is not a replica, reproduction, or toy. The cannon was designed to fire a projectile attached to a rope to a boat or a victim in distress. Now it is used to inspire those seeking a healthier lifestyle.

Dr. Derrick Scott supervises a team of MCHD employees that has been trained to safely use the device. Joining him were Edward Franklin, Erika Goodwin, Tracey Hall, Eddie Jones, Gwen Jones, Roxanne Lee-Huett, William Taylor, Henry Wright, and Tremika Young.

Any other groups interested in having the MCHD Activities Team attend their event should send an email to MCHDCannonTeam@mchd.org or call 251-690-8823.