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Fit For Life Kids Challenge
Spring 2008

What: The Fit For Life Kids Challenge is a free incentive-based fitness program for elementary school-aged children throughout the metro Richmond area. The program will encourage youth to run 26 miles over the course of a 10-week period.
   
Who: The program will be flexible and allow for teachers, volunteers, and parents to take the initiative to get kids started in the program.
   
When: Beginning in late February, elementary school children in the area will strive to complete the running program by accumulating 26 miles. The kids also have the opportunity to run one of their miles at the First Market Mile Kids Run, part of the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k, on April 5.
   
How:

Participants in the Fit For Life Kids Challenge will track their progress on a Running Log (coloring sheet.) Students will receive incentive prizes at the 5, 10, 15, and 20 mile marks along their way. These incentive items will be coupons that are attached to the coloring log and are redeemable at Sports Backers Stadium or through your teacher at your school if your school is participating in the Kids Challenge.

You may print out a Running Log (available in mid-February) (For best results, print on 11 x 14 (Legal size) paper) or pick one up at Richmond-area First Market Bank locations beginning February 18.

   
Where: Children can run their miles anywhere they want …home, during recess, soccer practice, or wherever or whenever they can. Children will keep track of their mileage based on the honor system and supervision from a parent, teacher or facilitator.
   
First Market Mile : Participating children will have the option to run one of their miles at the First Market Mile Kids Run on Saturday, April 5 (paid entry required). The one-mile run will take them across the same finish line as participants in the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k, where they will be greeted by cheers from the crowd and awarded with commemorative finisher medals.
   
Program Goals:
  • Encourage 20,000 elementary school-aged children to be more active.
  • Establish frequent and consistent exercise habits that will carry into adolescence and adulthood.
  • Increase community support and awareness of youth fitness.
   
Contact Info: Faith Hecht coordinates the Fit For Life Kids Challenge program for the Sports Backers. If you have questions about the program or would like to get a large quantity of Running Logs, please contact her at faith@sportsbackers.org or call her at (804) 285-9495 x250.