Maple Grove, MN – YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host the eighth annual Kidarod presented by Cargill at Fish Lake Regional Park on Saturday, February 19, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Racing includes kid-only or kid plus adult, with afternoon and nighttime glow racing options. Participants choose their start time to create physical distancing and a safe adventure for all.
For the first time in American history, kids have a shorter life expectancy than their parents due to factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and declining participation in organized sports. The Kidarod, the nation’s largest winter adventure race for kids ages five to 17, is embraced by pediatricians in more than 50 Twin Cities pediatric clinics as a way to motivate kids to be more active.
The Kidarod is a part of an adventure race series partnership between YMCA’s Adventure Lab and Three River Parks District. The Kidarod includes trail running, hill-climbing, hiking, obstacles, sliding and more. The event will attract more than 1,500 participants and will feature fun activities in addition to the race, including a chance to meet a team of husky sled dogs. For more information, visit www.cyclehealth.org.
“We are thrilled to provide safe, unique adventure opportunities for kids and families,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the Y. “When we empower young people to develop healthy habits early, we set them up for future success.”
WHO:
YMCA of the North Adventure Lab and Three Rivers Parks District
WHAT:
Eighth Annual Kidarod
WHERE:
Fish Lake Regional Park at 14900 Bass Lake Road in Maple Grove, MN 55311
WHEN:
Saturday, February 19 at 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
About the YMCA of the North
The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 166 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities. The 29 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcamn.org.