Kids Run Arkansas April 18

The sixth annual Kids Run Arkansas will be held 6 p.m. Friday, April 18, at Laurel Park in Conway. Participants may choose the one-mile or three-mile route and families are encouraged to participate.

According to organizers, 626 have already registered.

The top three schools with the highest percentage of registrants will be awarded funds to use for their physical education program. There are no race chips or places in this race; it is geared for fitness and fun.

Heather Kendrick is the race director this year and Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center is the corporate sponsor.

"Kids Run Arkansas is the perfect opportunity for families to get outside and be active together. For many kids this is their first ‘run’ experience, and it’s a positive atmosphere where they can see how great it feels to cross that finish line amidst cheers and fanfare,” said Kendrick. “With the rise of childhood obesity-related illnesses, it’s more important than ever to show kids that exercise is fun. Kids Run Arkansas does just that."

Kids Run Arkansas is continuing to grow in other Arkansas towns and cities. Benton and Bryant are new satellite hosts for 2014; Clarksville and Jonesboro were both satellite hosts the previous years. Hosts offer Kids Run Arkansas within their community to help bring awareness to the importance of physical activity in youth and working to help combat childhood obesity.

The cost is $9 per child. A special registration rate is also available for a family of four: $28. A registration form is available at http://www.conwayregional.org/ClassesPrograms or the Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, located at 700 Salem Road in Conway. Packet pickup begins Wednesday at the fitness center.

For more information or to volunteer/sponsor, contact Kendrick ([email protected]) at 450.9292, ext. 305, or Amanda Castillo ([email protected]) at 450.9292, ext. 307.