In an effort to help children and their families lead healthier and more active lives, Fit Kids of Arizona sponsored the 2nd annual Fit Kids 5K Fun Run and 10K Autumn Dash on Saturday, Nov. 19 at Cottonwood’s Riverfront Park. Close to 150 walkers and runners of all ages and abilities attended the event, with all participants finishing in less than three hours.

“It was a great day, from the warmer weather to seeing families participating in something healthy,” said Matt Leversee, Fit Kids program manager. “Seeing the kids and their parents walking and running together really encompasses what Fit Kids is all about.”

Awards were given to the top-three winners in different age and gender groups. The 10K men and women winners were Kris Schindele and Melissa Hammond; Scott Smith (athlete with Team USA Arizona, a Fit Kids partner organization) and Alice Berger, M.D., took first place for men and women in the 5K division.

Watch for more information on the 3rd annual Fit Kids Fun Run set for November 2012.

Fit Kids of Arizona is a regional community health initiative developed by Northern Arizona Healthcare, with programs at Verde Valley Medical Center and Flagstaff Medical Center addressing one of the largest healthcare concerns facing the U.S. – childhood obesity. The clinical programs at each location assist children and their families in learning about healthy lifestyle choices while reducing the problems and illnesses associated with excess weight. The Fit Kids team also focuses on taking a preventive community approach to help families live healthier lives.

Follow Fit Kids on Facebook at Facebook.com/FitKidsofArizona. For more information on the Fit Kids of Arizona program, call 928 639-6343 or visit NAHealth.com/Our Services/FitKidsofArizona.