The Healthy Kids Running Series has garnered significant attention, particularly in the Northeast Ohio area, for its commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for children. Christy Sonderman, a resident of Concord Township and a mother of two young children, has been a staunch advocate for this programme, emphasizing the importance of instilling healthy habits in children from an early age. When Sonderman discovered a local race at Lake Catholic High School, which is part of the national Healthy Kids Running Series, she immediately recognized the potential to engage her children in a physically active and enjoyable activity while also diverting their attention from electronic screens.
Sonderman expressed her enthusiasm for the event, remarking, “We have a family member involved in high school cross country and track, and my children admire him. They aspire to emulate him, and this event presents a wonderful opportunity to keep them active and content.” Her sentiments encapsulate the core values of the Healthy Kids Running Series – encouraging children to participate in physical activity and cultivating a sense of accomplishment and joy. Sonderman also highlighted the heartwarming sight of younger children running with beaming smiles, embodying the sheer enjoyment and innocence of the activity.
The local series at Lake Catholic, which commenced on April 7, has proven to be a resounding success, attracting families and children from the surrounding areas. Leslie Radke, the race coordinator, became involved in the series in 2022 when her daughter participated in the event. When the opportunity arose for her to take on a leadership role in her local community this year, Radke eagerly embraced the challenge. She shared, “After my daughter participated in the event last year, she was always eager to do it again. This initiative is all about promoting positive activity, and that’s a crucial message to instil in our children.”
Established in 2009, the Healthy Kids Running Series is a national, community-based non-profit organization that offers a five-week running programme for children aged 2-14. The focus is on nurturing a love for running, building self-confidence, and laying the groundwork for a healthy lifestyle. The series’ mission is to engage communities and families in providing an inclusive running experience for young people, inspiring children to believe in themselves and adopt an active, healthy lifestyle.
Radke meticulously prepared the quarter-mile course at the high school soccer field for the young runners, anticipating the 84 children registered for the first of the five-week series. Divisions ranged from 2-3 year-olds participating in a 50-yard dash to fourth through eighth graders tackling a one-mile run. The event has garnered attention not only locally but also nationwide, with races held in various locations across Northeast Ohio, including Medina, Cleveland, and Mentor.
The Healthy Kids Running Series has undeniably made a positive impact on the youth in the area, promoting an active lifestyle, fostering a sense of achievement, and encouraging fitness in a fun and engaging manner. As the series continues to gain momentum, it is truly heartening to witness the community’s commitment to instilling healthy habits in the younger generation.