Many of us look at running as a way to stay healthy and stave off extra pounds, and Saturday’s R.O.C. Fun Run aims to do that for a vulnerable population — America’s children.
Reaching Overweight Children Inc. encourages exercise and healthy nutrition for children. They put these concepts into practice at the annual 5K and 10K fun run, which is Saturday at the Kemah Boardwalk.
The event features divisions for children and adults, with the proceeds going to R.O.C.’s programs to get kids moving. Both events begin at 7 a.m.
“This is our second year, and the event has really grown,” race director P.J. Scheer said. “This year, both the 5K and 10K will be chip timed, and we’re expecting 450 to 500 runners and walkers.”
The USATF-certified fun run starts and finishes at 2nd and Bradford streets, and follows the bayfront.
“I’ve been letting everyone know that it doesn’t go over—or anywhere near—the Kemah Bridge,” Scheer said. “It’s a flat course with a long straight section.”
Runners in the 10K event make two laps of the 5K course.
Scheer, a personal trainer at the UTMB Field House, has tried to make every aspect of the fun run consistent with the goals of Reaching Overweight Children.
“Everything we do promotes activity and healthy nutrition, so our door prizes include two kids’ bikes,” she said.
“And we’ve steered clear of junk food at the post-race party. Instead, there’ll be fruit and some new power bars, along with the usual bagels and granola bars.”
Registration for the race is available online at www.signmeup.com, and at On The Run, 2427 Bay Area Boulevard, on Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Race-day registration will be held at the race from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. For further information, contact P.J. Scheer at 832-279-3904.
Bernice Torregrossa is a correspondent for The Daily News.
