CORNWALL, Ontario – Young athletes donned running shoes and bibs at Lamoureux Park on July 6 to race at the Cornwall Multisport Club’s Kids Day.
Around 100 runners from ages 2 to 16 participated in races ranging from 700 metres to 3.75 kilometres based on their age and ability. “It is a great event because of the range of difference race lengths,” said Rafeek Mohamed, one of the race coordinators. “There is really something for everyone here.”
The Cornwall Multisport Club hosted this event to keep young people in the community active and promote physical activity, according to Mohamed. “We want to see kids out and enjoying the summer weather and even take an interest in running and start an active lifestyle,” said Mohamed
With everyone receiving a medal for participating and special awards going to the first-placed runners, enjoying the day was the goal on this race day. “The kids in the community really seem to like the competition and the race atmosphere,” said Mohamed.
For some, Kids Day racing has become a tradition, according to Joey Tyo, who’s son and daughter have been running in the race for 5 years. “They love getting out and seeing their friends that also do these runs, and the friendly competition is good for them,” said Tyo.
“It is our club’s main goal to keep our community active and increase the amount of physical activity we do in Cornwall, said Mohamed. “We hope that the kids keep up with running and maybe consider doing the kids triathlon later in the summer.”
