Baby on Board! Tips for Racing with a Stroller
An IU Health West Release
Did you know that Indiana University Health West Hospital's B&O Express 5K/10K Run & Walk has always welcomed participants with strollers? We do!
Hendricks County's active families with young children now have a family-focused, stroller-friendly event right in their own backyard! The fourth Annual B&O Express--which will be held on September 8, 2012 at Indiana University Health West Hospital--will feature a brand new half-mile, non-competitive Stroller Stride family run/walk, in addition to the popular 5K and 10K races.
"We've always allowed strollers at our 5k and 10K run/walks," says Cathy Stoll, director of marketing and communications at IU Health West Hospital, the event sponsor. "This year, we wanted to encourage family involvement and allow even our youngest residents to support the B&O Trail, which is an awesome community fitness amenity for all ages."
Many races discourage jogging strollers or enforce a strict ban due to the safety concerns strollers present in a crowded race setting. But with a little common courtesy and some basic "Jog Stroller Racing Etiquette," events like the B&O Express can be safe and fun for runners, walkers and young riders alike.
Focus on fun. Jogging strollers can seem like "chariots of freedom" to young parents. But keep in mind that not all race participants are as psyched about your stroller as you are. A relaxed attitude and sense of humor goes a long way toward a fun event for both you and your little one.
Become a back-of-the-packer. You're not going to set a personal best pushing a stroller, but another racer might be trying to do just that. Hang back and let runners in front of you get a head start.
Walk the line. Weaving in and out of other runners and walkers is not safe for them or for your child. Lock your front wheel, maintain a straight line and steer clear of other participants whenever possible.
Yield to other racers. No matter the circumstances, racers without strollers have the right-of-way. Allow them to pass easily and stick to one side of the course.
Be a racing role model. Parents and caregivers who include their children in healthy activities, raise kids with healthier habits. Remember little eyes are on you, watching both your fitness choices and your social choices.
All B&O Express races start and finish on the IU Health West Hospital campus. The 10K race will again take participants on a paved section of the B&O Trail. Pre-registration for the 5K or 10K races is $20. No pre-registration or fee is required for the Stroller Stride Family Run/Walk. All child participants will win a ribbon.
Post-race activities include live music, train rides for kids, refreshments, a health fair and the chance to win a "staycation" in a train car at the downtown Indianapolis Crowne Plaza Hotel. Individual prizes and medals will be awarded to the top male and female finishers in each age group, for each race.
To register for the 5K or 10K race, go to botrail.org. Support the race, support your town and support completion of this valuable community asset!