National Athletes to Lead Event on March 7 at Franklin Field

New data from Public Health Management Corporation shows that one in five Philadelphia children suffer from obesity and 28.4% are overweight. While childhood obesity continues to be a health concern, the economic effect may be timelier: Recent studies estimate that $117 billion is spent on treating obesity-related health problems in American children each year.

Students Run Philly Style encourages families to get their children off the couch and into a healthy lifestyle. "Students Run not only provides our children with the opportunity to compete in a marathon, we give children a chance at a healthier life," says program director Heather McDanel. "Imagine the healthcare savings if every child had the opportunity to run with us."

Join in a solution to childhood obesity in Philadelphia:

What: Students Run Philly Style begins its fifth running season with its 2009 Kick-Off event including 700 of student runners, Philadelphia native and former NFL player, Carlos Bradley, and elite runner Abby Dean.

Who: The only program offering marathon training in the region, Students Run Philly Style helps young people succeed in life. Based on a similar initiative in Los Angeles, Students Run Philly Style connects students with adult mentors who help them imagine and accomplish goals, including the completion of a marathon.

When: Saturday, March 7, 2009, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: University of Pennsylvania's Franklin Field, South 33rd and Spruce Streets, Philadelphia

The 2009 Kick-Off Event also features fitness evaluations, running drills and various fun physical activities. For more information on Students Run Philly Style, please view attachment or contact Heather McDanel at mcdanel@nncc.us or 215-990-5281.

For more information about the event, please contact Jamie Arehart at jarehart@phmc.org or 267-350-7699.