Marine Corps Marathon Announces Winners of the 2007 Healthy School Award

QUANTICO, VA- The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) and Washington FAMILY Magazine, proud sponsor of the Healthy Kids Fun Run, announced today the winners of the 2007 Healthy School Award. Divided into three categories based on school enrollment the winners are: Alexandria’s Charles Barrett Elementary (enrollment less than 300 students), Fairfax’s Lynbrook Elementary (enrollment between 300 – 600 students) and Eagle View Elementary, also of Fairfax (enrollment above 600 students).

The Healthy School Award is presented to the school with the greatest number of students participating in the MCM Healthy Kids Fun Run, a one-mile un-timed run conducted on the day prior to the MCM. Washington FAMILY Magazine will make a $500 donation to each school’s physical education department.

“We believe that encouraging children to be healthy and physically active is a priority,” said Brenda Hyde, publisher of FAMILY Magazine. “These schools have met that challenge, and we are pleased to make a contribution that will support their efforts to help today's youth become physically fit.”

The Healthy Kids Fun Run presented by the Washington Post was held on October 27 in the Pentagon North parking lot in Arlington, VA. The event hosted 1,985 children between the ages of 6 and 13, the largest turnout ever. Kids representing more than 260 schools throughout the US participated in the event featuring mascots, educational activities, healthy snacks and fun with the Marines. Charles Barrett Elementary boasted 114 student participants, Lynbrook was represented by 168 participants and Eagle View rounded out the winners with 195 participants.

The MCM Healthy School Awards will be presented during special assemblies at the schools this winter featuring the Marines and Miles, the MCM Mascot. Kids Run sponsors include Washington FAMILY magazine, McDonald’s, Sodexho, Navy Federal and the National Children’s Museum.

Voted “Best Marathon for Families”, the Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. Runners from all walks of life have participated in the world’s largest marathon to not offer prize money, deservingly earning the nickname “The People’s Marathon.” The 33rd Marine Corps Marathon will be held on October 26, 2008 in Arlington, VA.

Beth Johnson
Public Relations Coordinator
Phone: 703-432-1165
Fax: 703-784-2265
www.marinemarathon.com