Maple Grove, MN – CycleHealth, a kid-powered wellness initiative of the YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host the seventh annual Kidarod at Fish Lake Regional Park on Saturday, February 20, from Noon to 7 p.m., and Sunday, February 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 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 event also marks the conclusion of CycleHealth’s Kidarod Training Challenge, which encourages kids and families to get active outside in the weeks leading up to the race.

The Kidarod is a part of an adventure race series partnership between YMCA CycleHealth and Three River Parks District. The Kidarod includes trail running, hill-climbing, hiking, obstacles, sliding and more. The event will attract upwards of 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 cyclehealth.org.

“We are thrilled to provide safe, unique adventure opportunities for kids and families,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO 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 CycleHealth and Three Rivers Parks District

WHAT:
Seventh Annual Kidarod

WHERE:
Fish Lake Regional Park at 14900 Bass Lake Road in Maple Grove, MN 55311

WHEN:
Saturday, February 20 at Noon - 7 p.m., and Sunday, February 21 from Noon – 2 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 165 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.ymcanorth.org.