By Theresa Garee

Little legs will start pumping in the new season of Healthy Kids Running. The second season starts Saturday, September 13th at 10:00 am.

The season includes five consecutive Saturdays: 9/13, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4, and 10/11 and races are at Norton Middle School (215 Norton Rd.). The races are perfect for beginners and the time commitment is an hour.

“Spring 2025 was our first ever Healthy Kids Running Series in Galloway!! We had 28 total kids, an amazing group of volunteers, and a lot of fun. Every kid decreased their times and grew their confidence over the five races, it was so amazing,” Community Coordinator Rose Lynch said.

For this fall season Lynch is hoping to see returning runners and grow the program. The race distance is determined on age, this way younger athletes don’t feel the finish line is unreachable.

Gabe K., age 9, shared his season goals: he is looking to run a mile each Saturday and is hoping to run a 8 minute mile, last season he increased his speed. He said the season also helped him to have fun during running and he enjoyed cheering on others.

“I want this to become a true community event for Galloway and Prairie Township, as a running event for kids isn’t something offered here in the west side,” Lynch said.

Lynch received accolades after her first season with the Spring 2025 Regional Spirit Award. She attributes the growth of Healthy Kids Running to the participants and her excitement and passion.

“This is really a “come as you are” event where kids don’t need any prior running experience to participate! All experience levels are welcome, and with ages being as little as 2, we encourage kids to have fun and just give their personal best,” Lynch said.

What the kids say:

Sydney L., age 6: “I’m excited to run with my friends and to get another medal!” 

Emma L., age 6: “To see my friends and run with them again.” 

Quinn L., age 4: “I’m excited to get a medal and to not have to run as far as the big kids.”

Ella L., age 4: “I’m most excited about running fast.”

Those interested in introducing their kids into running are welcome to sign up:

https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/HealthyKidsRunningSeriesGallowayOH