HISTORY
Southern Arizona Roadrunners (SAR), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting health and fitness in Tucson and Southern Arizona. SAR began the FitKidz running program in 2013 in order to provide experiences that start children on a path of being physically active for life. FitKidz aims to improve the health and wellness of our local community by engaging kids and their families in fun and healthy activities. Since the inception of FitKidz over 4,500 youth participants have taken part in a number of our free events and programs. FitKidz is an inclusive program that encourages all children to come out and run or walk, regardless of their backgrounds and experiences. With eight free running events offered throughout the year and the free five-week FitKidz Running Club, there are opportunities for every child to learn, run and have fun!
MISSION
The FitKidz program strives to promote the health and wellness of Tucson and Southern Arizona children through free, fun, and engaging youth running events and programs.
VISION
Our vision is to create and lead a vibrant and healthy youth running community that focuses on empowering children to be physically active and learn the skills to make positive lifestyle choices. We aspire to introduce children of all backgrounds to running and walking opportunities that enhance their health and well-being. We aim to be a regional leader in youth fitness programming and inspire the next generation of Tucson and Southern Arizona runners.
FITKIDZ PROGRAMS
FitKidz One Mile Races: 6,000 kids - 8+ races a year - all free!
In first 6 years of the program over 6,000 finisher ribbons have been handed to kids under the age of 12 as they crossed a FitKidz finish line! Kids have the full race experience which includes a free series t-shirt, finisher ribbons, official race bibs, awards for top finishers and having times recorded online so they can track their progress if they wish. The main goal of the program is for kids to explore the fun in fitness, provide them an outlet to set goals, and give them a reason to be active outdoors throughout the year with their family and peers. Currently one race each season is a standalone FitKidz event, The Sabino Canyon FitKidz Classic, and this is the highlight of the year with over 300 kids participating at that event last year. Other FitKidz one mile races are in conjunction with other SAR running events (before or after 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, etc).
FitKidz Club: Free 5-Week Kids Running Club
In 2017 we piloted the first ever free FitKidz Club and it was a great success. The program filled to capacity (60 kids) 3 days after we opened registration. The FitKidz Running Club promotes and highlights improved skills over a 5-week period, focusing and progress over performance and enjoyment over competition. The 2019 spring session had 130 kids partake and we added a nutrition component!
