If you are or if you know a “Race Lovin’, Healthy and Fit, FUN RUN kinda kid,” save the date for the Huntsville Hospital Fun Run on September 19. All kids preschool through 8th grade are invited to participate in this exciting and FREE afternoon of fun for the entire family … now in its 33rd year!
About the Run
The Huntsville Hospital Fun Run is a tradition that spans generations for many North Alabama families. Moms and dads who remember running as a child now cheer on their own kids or even run alongside them. Everyone is a winner in this non-competitive race that promotes healthy lifestyles by highlighting the importance of exercise.
You can see the fun for yourself in this video produced by the City of Huntsville in 2012.
What’s “fun” about the Fun Run?
- To be a winner, all you have to do is participate.
- You can run, run-walk, walk, skip or hop.
- Every kid who completes the 1-mile course receives a blue ribbon and t-shirt. Everybody loves free stuff … especially when the t-shirt has NEON colors.
- You get to spend an afternoon outside with hundreds of other parents and kids who understand the value of good health. You’ll see your friends and make new ones too.
- The turnout at this high-energy event is always great. Perhaps Mayor Battle will be handing out high-fives at the finish line, or you might see yourself on the local news.
Why a Run is Important
Anna Key, registered dietitian with Huntsville Hospital Wellness Center, said that Alabama is one of six states with childhood obesity rates above 30 percent.
“It’s urgent and very important to get active, and doing so doesn’t have to be boring,” she said.
More tips from Anna on family fun:
- One hour a day goes a long way! Help kids choose fun activities such as Wii games, organized sports, swimming or merely playing outside.
- Involve the whole family with walks, hikes and bike rides. It’s a win-win because you get more family time, and you are setting an example as an active parent.
- Involve kids in grocery shopping, meal planning and meal preparation. Discuss the importance of healthy choices and smart portions.
New to the Fun Run in 2013 … online registration. There’s no fee to participate, but all donations collected on the day of the race benefit pediatric oncology at Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.
Event Information: Huntsville Hospital Fun Run
Date: Thursday, September 19th (rain date September 26th)
Time: Registration begins at 3:30pm; last race starts at 6:30pm
Location: Jaycee’s Building
Cost: Free to participate but donations accepted
Registration: Avaible online and day of the event starting at 3:30pm
About the Author
Pam Sparks wanted to relocate to the Tennessee Valley when she graduated from the University of Alabama in 1996. Three moves — first to East Tennessee, back to Tuscaloosa, then all the way to East Texas — and she finally made it to Madison in 2006. Pam has been in health care marketing and public relations for more than 10 years and wants to retire from Huntsville Hospital. She loves the responsibilities and challenges of her career and active volunteer schedule, and her proudest accomplishment is when she manages to get her son “Speedy” to baseball practice on time. Always up for a new challenge, her dream is to be a competitor on the Amazing Race!
Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.
