More than 70 schools are already thinking spring and getting ready to run, but there is still plenty of time for more to join them. The Cellcom Green Bay Marathon is seeking schools to participate in its Prevea Luv2Run training program, a six-week program designed to prepare elementary and middle school students for the 3.1-mile Cellcom Green Bay 5K being held on Sunday, May 17.
Schools participating in the program are provided with a six-week training curriculum designed by Prevea Sports Medicine. The curriculum can be facilitated by any adult, regardless of running experience.
“We provide the tools to make it easy to launch a program at any school or incorporate the program into an existing running club. All it takes is a parent, teacher or community member who is willing to step up and support the students,” said Eric Gorder, Prevea Luv2Run Director for the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon.
The program is free and students who complete the training are able to participate in the Cellcom Green Bay 5K for only $15. Up to three coaches per school can receive a free entry. The Cellcom Green Bay 5K travels through the neighborhoods near Lambeau Field and includes a lap around the stadium bowl before finishing on Mike McCarthy Way. Everyone who participates on race day receives a finisher medal and event t-shirt, along with a post-race party in the Stadium View parking lot complete with Papa John’s pizza. New this year, the 5K will take place on Sunday alongside the distance events.
“Each year we look for opportunities to bring excitement to marathon weekend. Moving the 5K to Sunday is going to bring energy for all of our distances and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our student athletes,” said Alissa Cotter, co-race director of the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon.
The Prevea Luv2Run program was developed in 2008 to increase youth interest in the sport of running. The program aims to engage youth in a positive free time activity that can turn into a lifelong healthy hobby. Prevea is proud to serve as the title sponsor of the program.
“The Luv2Run program helps our youth become active in a fun and safe environment,” said Ashok Rai, MD, President and CEO of Prevea Health. “Introducing running provides the youth in our community with a form of exercise that they can do their entire life and will contribute to a healthy lifestyle.”
An informational meeting for coaches and schools will take place on Monday, February 24 at Badger State Brewery at 6 p.m. Schools are encouraged to sign up prior the meeting. Training officially kicks off the second week in April. For more information or to register, contact Eric Gorder at L2R@cellcomgreenbaymarathon.com.
The 21st Cellcom Green Bay Marathon will take place May 16-17, 2020. Over the past 20 years, the race has generated more than $1.5 million in proceeds for local charities. For more information visit www.cellcomgreenbaymarathon.com.