Harlem School visit- NYC Marathon
This was too funny- everyone had their hand up, some didn't even hear the question, others started talking randomly about their parents, or vegetables they like.. which eventually led to an entire change of subject.
Before Marathon Sunday, I went to visit a school in Harlem where youngsters were taking part in a program run by the New York Road Runners (NYRR) called “Mighty Milers”. The program promotes fitness among children in schools and community centers, helping them to stay active in today’s society. It is especially tough in areas of NY where there isn’t alot of safe green park spaces for kids to stay active, or among families who cannot afford extra-cirricular activities. Even in the particular school I visited, the small gymnasium was split in half and was being shared between multiple schools.
The “Mighty Milers” program offers several various running programs for kids of different ages. The childrens’ progress is tracked, as they aim to complete a full marathon, 26.2 miles (42 kilometers), by the end of the school year.
The kids I met were very cute, all full of energy but needing an outlet. Their light and innocent energy filled me up, and I hope I left some sort of impression on them to stay healthy and active. The younger generation needs our guidance, and it is up to us to show them what we all deep down know is so important- a healthy and active lifetyle.
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As they ran their marathon miles for me around the gym, I waited on one corner to give high fives- this little guy and his twin brother were cutting across the gym, as to get more high fives.
Take note of pre-meditated gangsta pose on my left shoulder, and piece sign on my lower left. Hilarious.
Lets hope they take their enthusiasm and this experience into later life!
This is so great Josh!! You are bound to impress these kids with your message. I heard you at St. Joseph’s last year, and I was impressed!! You live what you say…your words are bonus! You are so awesome!!