Global Running Day
Global Running Day, a day for people all over the world to celebrate the joys of running, is set for Wednesday 1 June 2016.
The centrepiece of this year’s Global Running Day is the first-ever Million Kid Run that aims to have a million children around the world running on 1 June.
“What began as a grassroots initiative eight years ago has naturally grown into a global day of running, fitness, and fun with partners and participants around the world,” said Michael Capiraso, president and CEO of New York Road Runners. “New this year, the Million Kid Run is a thrilling initiative that will see a million kids worldwide experience the joys of running that will hopefully inspire them to run for life.”
The IAAF, through its social responsibility programme Athletics for a Better World, is one of many international organisations involved in this year’s Global Running Day. Many professional runners from around the world will also play a part.
“I think it’s very important for kids to get active in all sports, especially running,” said world indoor 1500m champion Matthew Centrowitz. “Starting to be active at a young age is extremely important for a future, healthy lifestyle, especially the friendships you make through running.”
Participating in the day will be as simple as making a pledge on the Global Running Day website, globalrunningday.org, to promise to be a part of the running community on 1 June. It can be a solo lap around the block, a long run with friends, or even a game of tag.
The key is for runners of all ages and abilities to share their passion for the sport and inspire others to get moving.
