Kids' races

[Kendra Downs]

Hi Everyone

            We are wondering about the kids…what is a good distance and how should the kids be grouped?  I am sure there are many ways this can be done; we are just looking for some ideas.

 

Thanks

[Jay]

Hi Kendra,

This one is tough to answer because there are almost limitless options
with a kid's run. I assume you are referring to a Fun Run, and if so,
the key thing is to make sure it is "fun!" That means don't make it so
long or challenging that little kids can't finish. The distance can be
anything from 50 yards to a quarter mile, or perhaps a half mile if
you are going to involve older kids. You can have a shorter course for
younger kids. If you don't want to run all the kids together, you
could (as an example) go age 7 and under, and age 8-12. We always give
each kid bib #1, and we make sure they get a prize of some sort when
they complete the run. Some races charge for the Fun Run and give
shirts. We do neither.

Schedule your Fun Run when there will be plenty of racers in your
primary race around to cheer for the kids - the kids'll love having
people cheer for them! We have our Fun Run after our 5K - it helps
fill the time till the award ceremony. Other races have their Fun Run
before their main race, for those folks who don't want to wait around
afterward.

Be creative with your Fun Run; give it a theme, keep it simple, and
make sure it'll be fun for the kids.

Jay


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