By Amanda Amsel
Staff Writer
The Franklin Township Local 1441 Firefighters Union is encouraging area children to get fit by bringing a national race to Columbus for the first time.
The union will be hosting the Healthy Kids Running Series from April 10 to May 15 at Westgate Park in Columbus.
“The series is for kids that are in preschool through eighth grade,” said Chas Adams, assistant chief for the Franklin Township Fire Department. “The series last for six weeks and is a great way to get area children outside and encourage physical fitness.”
Children between the ages of 2 to 5 years old will run a 50-yard dash each week, children between the ages of 5 years old and 7 years old will run a quarter of a mile each week, children between the ages of 7 and 9 years old will run a half a mile each week and children between the ages of 9 and 14 years old will run one mile a week.
According to Adams, the top runners at the end of the series will receive trophies.
“This is the first time this race has come to central Ohio, so we are thrilled we could bring it here,” Adams said. “While anyone can participate, we really hope children on the westside will particularly participate.”
There will be no obstacles during the run and according to Adams it will be a regular race. Adams also said the department wanted to host this event because they wanted to bring something fun to the westside.
“This is a great opportunity to meet your neighbors and for kids to meet other kids they otherwise might never know,” Adams said. “We also have invited Franklin Township law enforcement to attend, as well the firefighters, so the community can learn about the resources they have in their backyard.”
Besides hosting the event, the union also will be donating water and is soliciting businesses to donate snacks for the children.
“The township would like to get involved in this as well and donate something,” said Don Cook, township trustee. “This is a great event and is just one of many things our department leaders will be putting on this year.”
Registration for the event is $35 and includes a t-shirt for your child. For more information or to sign up your child, visit www.healthykidsrunningseries.org.
