The Family Run is Victorious Once Again with Families in Spain
On Sunday, May 19th, more than 2,000 families came out to participate in The Family Run. The event took place between ‘Parc de la Ciutadella’ and ‘Arc de Triomf’ and consisted of races for both adults and children. This year, there were more than 800 children, ages 0 to 14 years old, that participated. It was a fun-filled day as the families not only participated in the run itself, but also had the opportunity to learn about healthy habits as well.
The Family Run is a sportive and solidary event organized by Kaptiva Sports and the Gasol Foundation. One of the goals of The Family Run is to encourage the inclusion of physical activity, and other healthy habits, within family routines that incite the healthy growth and development of children. Another important goal is to demonstrate to families that leading a healthy lifestyle can be both simple and fun.
The family races were divided according to age: 10 to 14 years old (1,200 meters), 6 to 9 years old, (900 meters), and 3 to 5 years old (500 meters). Parents with children under 3 years old participated in the “wheels” category, where they were able to push their strollers in the 1,200 meter race. The excitement on all the children’s faces as they began to line up at the start line was definitely a sight to be seen. With the parents support, the children learned that they were already winners just by making the commitment to show up and finish the race. Both adults and children were awarded a medal after reaching the finish line.
The fun was only getting started once all the races were completed. Families enjoyed various activities and workshops that
promoted healthy habits. This year, The Family Run event included workshops organized by ‘l’Ajuntament de Barcelona’, Garmin –the main collaborator, ‘l’Associació de Diabetis de C
Pilates and stretching sessions for parents and children on the ‘Passeig Lluís Companys’ were provided as well. Having these sessions demonstrated yet another fun, physical activity that can be practiced together as a family.
Additionally, Gasol Foundation offered activities pertaining to our four basic pillars of the foundation: physical activity and sports, healthy eating, rest, and emotional well-being. Implementing our four pillars at the Family Run event helps us to further reiterate our “Zero Childhood Obesity” slogan. After all, children who practice all four pillars on a daily basis, have a much greater chance of continuing these healthy habits as they enter adulthood. Events such as The Family Run are a great way to motivate children of all ages to get moving and active.
The Family Run was quite a success. The event allowed families to come together and enjoy being active and learn about the importance of health and wellness. This event could not have been possible if it were not for all of the families that came out to support. Each and every single family dedicated their time and effort, and we cannot thank them enough for that.
We are happy to announce that all the proceeds from The Family Run will go towards future Gasol Foundation healthy habit initiatives aimed towards families in vulnerable situations.