I would never call myself a “runner” but over the years I have participated in various races for many different reasons, but two reasons have been constant through every race, no matter the length, or location -
- It’s good for my health and by that I mean my physical and mental health
- It’s good for our children to see us lead by example and make our well-being a priority
It was no surprise when our son asked to participate in a race too. A “real” race as he called it - one where he gets a numbered bib, a finishing time, photos and medal. In other words, at the age of 5, he had decided he has outgrown the “dashes” and "fun runs" that accompany so many of the races my husband and I have participated in over the years. In the fall of his kindergarten year, I put his baby sister in the stroller and he and I participated in our first 5k together. It was a mix of jogging and walking and in the end, our time was nothing to brag about, but it was a great learning experience for us both and we had FUN! Since then we have signed up for a few other 5k races around Chicago, but the bottom line is that without any training a 5k is just a little too far for him right now.
Imagine my excitement when I connected with Mallory Simms, founder of Kids Run This City - a race series specifically designed with kids in mind! The inaugural event will take place May 11th in Lincoln Park and with three distances to choose (1k, 2k, and 3k) there is an event for all kids up to age 12. Even better, my son would declare this a “real” race because it has all the extras that adults expect in a standard 5k or 10k - swag bags, race bibs, finishing times, photos and the coveted medal! Local businesses, including Macaroni Kid Chicago, will be supporting the event with race day entertainment and prizes.
If you would like more information, or to register for this race, please visit https://www.kidsrunthiscity.com
