Youths in grades pre-k through grade 8 invited to participate in this fun-filled, free event
BOSTON, MA – On Sunday, March 12, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will host the inaugural Boston Marathon Youth Running Jamboree at the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center, providing an opportunity for youth athletes to experience the joys of track and field. The Boston Marathon Youth Running Jamboree is a free, fun-filled event for children pre-K through grade 8. Guiding the next generation of runners at the event will be world-class athletes and coaches, as well as mascots from the area's top teams.
From 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., youth athletes will take to the Reggie Lewis track and infield to participate in age-group races and activity stations, with medals being presented to every participant. A number of VIP clinicians will take part in the festivities, including 1977 Boston Marathon runner-up and women's running pioneer Marilyn Bevans; American Record holder and Olympian Ajee' Wilson; USA national indoor 1000m champion Charlene Lipsey; B.A.A. High Performance team members Jen Rhines, Emily Lipari, Sarah Pagano, and Daniel Winn, as well as B.A.A. High Performance coach Terrence Mahon. Also on hand will be 2012 Olympian and Boston native Ruben Sanca; Paralympic gold and silver medalist Jerome Singleton; Randolph, Mass. Paralympian Femita Ayanbaku; and Boston United Track Club/Emmanuel College Coach Tony DaRocha.
What: Boston Marathon Youth Jamboree
When: Sunday, March 12, 2017, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center
Who: Youth grades pre-k through grade 8. With the support and assistance of Adaptive Sports New England, the clinic will be inclusive for youth with visual and mobility impairments.
Cost: Free!
In addition to races, attendees will have the chance to meet and take pictures with some of the area's most recognized mascots, including Pat Patriot of the five-time Super Bowl champion New England Patriots; Spike, the unicorn mascot of the B.A.A. 10K, presented by Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Wally the Green Monster of the Boston Red Sox. Participants will also be able to connect with and get autographs from the elite athletes in attendance.
With the support of Adaptive Sports New England, children who are visually impaired, have Cerebral Palsy, walk/run on a prosthetic, or have a similar mobility impairment are welcome to participate at the Jamboree. Children who use wheelchairs are also welcome. Families who may benefit from the support of Adaptive Sports New England are encouraged to attend.
For complete details and to sign-up for the free Boston Marathon Youth Running Jamboree, please visit http://www.baa.org/programs/youth-programs/boston-marathon-youth-running-jamboree.aspx. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged.
Contact: Suzanne Walmsley, Youth & Community Engagement Director, swalmsley@baa.org