A few months ago, my 4 year old daughter experienced her first 5K run with her uncle. He pushed two kiddos in a double stroller, so awesome!
Then, a few weeks later, she asked me if we could run another race. She’s always been quick on her feet, and loves the outdoors so I thought, “Why not?” My husband is a soccer player and I danced for 20 years, so we both know about the importance of exercise and fitness and so far, our daughter has inherited our love of movement.
We signed up for an early morning Fun Run, money going to proceeds for a local charity. The day of the race we were up and out of the door before 7:45 am. We were among other community members and there was music, t-shirts, after-race snacks, and most importantly, complimentary breakfast burritos.
The fun run commenced and my kid ran the whole race. Over 1 mile.
Was there a prouder mama there? Not a chance. My family and I had one of the best mornings we’d had in a long time. We left the race feeling fantastic and it set us up for an awesome day.
Will we be entering more in the future? You bet.
Think about signing up your family for a fun run this summer. Maybe you’ll discover a new park in Dallas, or a cool new town. With the hot Texas summer ahead, entering a 5K or fun run is a chance to get outside before it gets to the point of melting. It’s a chance to meet other folks, or just enjoy family time.
Be sure to check out some of these organized runs coming to a town near you this summer:
Peace, Love, Run 5K
Get groovy and raise money for Back On My Feet Dallas-Fort Worth in Richardson.
Must-Dash 5K
Kick off Father’s Day weekend at this mustache themed race. Bring your “stach” and stay for the live music, water fountains and you can even ride the DART to the venue.
Race For Their Future
Raising funds for the Oak Cliff Boys and Girls Club
Fourth of July Fireworks 1 and 5K
Enjoy the scenic loop around Stonebridge Ranch in McKinney before snow cones and celebrating Independence Day!
2014 Highland Village Hot Air 5K and Fun Run
As part of the Highland Village Hot Air Balloon Fest, join in with other movin’ feet before watching the gorgeous colored balloons rise into the sky. Grab a bite at the pancake breakfast and check out the Kid’s Zone.
Melon Dash 5K
Have a blast in downtown McKinney with a fun run followed by a stroll through the Chestnut Square Farmer’s Market. Proceeds go to North Texas Cat Rescue.
5K4Kids
In Mesquite, both a fun run and a 5K benefitting Kids Beach Club at Porter Elementary
Have you had a great experience running in a fun run or 5K with your family?
Tell us in the comments!
I was just thinking I need to get back into jogging. I love the Couch to 5k program. Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi Carrie,
I’m so glad my post sparked a fire to get running. After having the little guy last November, it’s been a challenge, I still need a push to get out there and move. Happy jogging!
Gabby
Super blog entry, Gabby! Enough info to whet the appetite about participating in a fun run, family time (doing a digital fast—no tech gear during) and info on future runs. I love it!!!