Burlington, VT
May 28, 2000
Story and Photos by Carol Goodrow

Message to Kids at kidsrunning.com from VCM Winner, Greg Hill, "Keep the fun in running. Don't get hung up on structured workouts. Run as far as you feel like running and run as fast as you want to!" Greg Hill, Freeburg, IL, with a PR finish. Not too many kids feel like running 26.2 miles at one time but running 26.2 miles over a period of weeks is a 'piece of cake' for the kids in the Many Milers Running Program. Today in Vermont about 100 Kid Milers celebrated reaching their goal of logging at least 26.2 miles this year. Miriam Street, the director of the Many Milers was here today to congratulate the kids by handing out medals, tee shirts and certificates to lots of happy healthy kids. The program which is sponsored by the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon and by HealthSouth, was created to promote running for kids 13 years of age and younger. And although the kids are now allowed to log miles for cycling, snow shoeing, skiing and walking; running is still the most popular means of 'miling' for the kids in this program. It was a long day! Many kids rose at dawn to get to Battery Park, in time, so that they could cheer on their moms and dads who were running the marathon. This is a great marathon to view, with a route shaped like a 'bow' the runners pass by the start area at miles 3.3, 9.5 and 15. The streets stay lined with fans for hours. Watching the Marathon At noon, the kids met at Waterfront Park, picked up their tee shirts, and got in line alphabetically. They were entertained by a Taiko Group before they were called up on the stage, one-by-one to receive their awards. Click on the thumbnail photo for a large view. The Graduates It was a day of inspiration, one that should make any person want to lace up that pair of old running shoes and run right out the door.

Future Many Milers: Maybe Next Year!

Kudos to Miriam Street for directing this program and for designing a fabulous running log packet, which is one of the finest pieces of work for kids that I have seen. The log packet is full of information activities and tips as well as sections for kids to keep a 'journal'. It also includes a mileage chart with superb art work and graphics.

Send her a note and maybe she will send you a sample. Email Miriam at runvt@together.net This program is worth sharing with your school or running club. It's an easy way to get kids involved in exercise and a healthy life style as well as in RUNNING! carol.kids@rodale.com. We would love to hear from you!

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>Click here for the Many Miler Photo Page.

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