Gainesville, VA—September 25, 2011—Promoters of the Heritage Half-Marathon & 5K want area youth to understand the importance of exercising each day while experiencing the thrill of finishing a challenging race. As part of the Marathon Mile, a new event associated with the Heritage Half-Marathon in Haymarket, VA, elementary school-age runners have the opportunity to run/walk a total of 25 miles or 12.1 miles in the weeks leading up to the race. On Saturday, October 15, participants will run/walk the final 1.2 miles, finishing at the Battlefield High School track to the roar of a cheering crowd. Those who complete the equivalent of a full marathon or half-marathon will receive a certificate for accomplishing a marathon, finisher medal, amenity bag and Marathon Mile T-shirt.
Dr. Holly Moriarty, owner of Haymarket Physical Therapy & Chiropractic and the presenting sponsor of the Heritage Half-Marathon & 5K, is enthusiastic about this new addition to the event. “What a great way to not only encourage youth fitness, but also reward young runners for working toward a goal over time.” The Heritage Half-Marathon & 5K, now in its second year, will take place on Sunday, October 16 in Haymarket, VA. The out-and-back course takes runners across a lightly rolling terrain amid beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Given the timing and location of the event, the Heritage Half-Marathon provides a strong lead-in to the annual Marine Corps Marathon.
Runners in fifth grade or below who are interested in competing in the Marathon Mile can find registration information and tracking log sheets on the Heritage Half-Marathon website at www.heritagehalfmarathon.com. Adds Dr. Moriarty, “We encourage all athletes to come join us for this spectacular event. With a half marathon, a 5K race, and the Marathon Mile for young runners, there is truly something for everyone!”
