By Remy LaFlamme, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- Healthy Kids Running Series provides a fun, family-friendly activity in the fall and spring. The Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS) is a national nonprofit run by community coordinators. The Brunswick community co-coordinators are Bobbi Kovalik and Tammy Mushangazhiki. The program’s goal is to show kids a healthy lifestyle and feel accomplished by being active.
HKRS is for kids ages 2-14. Each age group runs a different length ranging from 50 yards up to 1 mile. A Challenger 75-yard dash inclusive race is also offered so any kid can participate. The HKRS Brunswick is held at Heritage Park on Laurel Road. The program offers two 5-week sessions: one in the fall and one in the spring. The last race in every session has a parents' 1-mile fun run and awards.
Kovalik said, “We provide kids with a fun introduction to the sport of running in an environment that builds confidence and self-esteem. We believe our cross-country-inspired program will encourage kids to adopt a “Get Up and Go” attitude.” Every kid that signs up for the full series will get a T-shirt and finisher medal. Kids can also sign up for a single day of the race.
The HKRS is supported by local sponsors and many volunteers. Per Kovalik, “Our faithful sponsors include Pete and Polly Resale Shop, Grace & Gratitude Yoga, MDG Flooring America, 1-800-DOGPOOP, The Brunswick Historical Society, and GViper Photography. With their help, we keep our program running strong!”
Remy LaFlamme, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Trophies given by HKRS.