Kids’ run May 17

***image1***The America’s Kids Run Event will provide 20,000 children, 5 to 13 years of age, an opportunity to participate in a fun run May 17 on Air Force, Navy and Army bases worldwide. Ramstein will hold the run at 10 a.m. at the Southside Fitness Center Annex.

The 5- and 6-year-olds run one-half mile, the 7- and 8-year-olds run one mile and the 9- to 13-year-olds run two miles, with a finish line reward of an America’s Kids Run T-shirt and the cheers of their proud parents. Interested youth, teens and parents can register for the event at www.americaskidsrun.org. Late registrations will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. May 17 at the Southside Fitness Center Annex.

The event offers an outstanding opportunity for children of military personnel to participate in a safe, interactive and fun event on Air Force, Navy and Army bases as part of Armed Forces Day celebrations and May Fitness Month promotions.

America’s Kids Run has a 22-year history of success, originating in Spokane, Wash., in 1986. Eight thousand children in Spokane run the race the second week of April each spring in anticipation of an annual adult race, which attracts 50,000 runners in May.

“Children’s obesity is in an epidemic state, and our event provides children an innovative, fun and safe place to exercise, while providing an experience to enhance the self-esteem of the children who participate,” said Mike Erwert, executive director and event founder. “Our 19-year history has shown us that children who begin running at an early age continue with exercise as a life style choice through their elementary, middle and high school activities.

“Our goal is to share our history of success and fitness behavior with children throughout the world,” Mr. Erwert said.

Military dependents worldwide now have an opportunity to join in the fun. Visit www.americaskidsrun.org for details.