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[ MONUMENTAL MOVEMENT MARATHON ]
A Monumental Movement for Kids Developing life-long fitness habits in area children Laura Neidig, Marketing and Communications Manager, Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
Distance runners are known for their tenacity and commitment, the same traits needed by children today to adhere to a lifestyle of healthy eating and fitness. Fortunately, our children have an ally in one of the fastest growing marathons in the country: the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon (IMM). Now in its sixth year, the IMM has become a powerful force in the community in the fight against childhood obesity. More than just a race, the IMM is a non-profit organization with a mission to educate Indianapolis youth about the benefits of exercise, proper diet and healthy living. This was the catalyst to launch the Monumental Kids Movement, a nine week running program where kids meet twice a week before or after school and run. They start slow, and learn how the sport can guide them on the road to developing life-long fitness habits. The goal is for all of the kids to participate in the IMM 5K on November 2nd in downtown Indianapolis. This year, it’s expected there will be 1,000 Monumental Kids
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Monumental Kids Movement students at IPS School #114 | Photo credit: Laura Neidig
comprised of students from 17 Indianapolis Public Schools and the Challenge Foundation Academy. “From its inception, the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon has been focused on supporting public education and improving the community. It's our hope that Monumental Kids Movement will have a long lasting and tangible impact on the lives of the hundreds of elementary school kids participating this fall,” says Blake Boldon, executive director of the IMM. Kids will also learn a little about philanthropy. Through partnerships with Medals4Mettle and the Youth Philanthropy Initiative of Indiana, participants will be encouraged to donate their finishers’ medals as awards to patients in Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health. The motto of the race is “Be Monumental.” What a fitting motto for these kids as well!