26 Apr 2017 Kids Run Arkansas attracts record number

A record number participated Friday in the Ninth Annual Kids Run Arkansas, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

According to race organizer Amanda Castillo, 1,116 registered for the event, representing 45 different schools throughout Central Arkansas. Stormy weather held off for the event, held at Laurel Park in Conway.

Groovy Smiles Pediatric Dentistry was again the title sponsor.

Each year, the schools with the highest percentage of participation are awarded scholarships for their physical education programs.

This year’s scholarships totaled $8,000 and were awarded to:

1.    St. Joseph  – $2,000

2.    Woodrow Cummins Elementary – $1,600

3.    Ellen Smith Elementary – $1,200

4.    Anne Watson Elementary in Bigelow – $1,000

5.    Julia Lee Moore Elementary – $700

6.    Conway Christian – $ 500

7.    Theodore Jones Elementary – $400

8.    Jim Stone Elementary – $ 300

9.    Carolyn Lewis Elementary – $200

10.    Ruth Doyle Intermediate – $100

Kids Run Arkansas is open to kids of all ages and parents. There is no chip timing as Kids Run Arkansas strives to promote fun and fitness in youth and family. The event offers fun for the entire family, including face painting, games and more, leading up to the 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk.

 “Next year is our 10 year anniversary and we plan to make it extra special for the participants and to continue to grow the event,” said race director Mallory Lefler.

For more information, visit conwayregional.org/classesprograms. (See more photos in the June issue of 501 LIFE.)