January 18, 2012
Colin Jackson CBE is to undertake his own marathon school run to celebrate news that every Primary School in Westminster has signed up to this year’s Tesco Great School Run programme.
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The Olympic medalist will take on a half marathon, running a 15 mile route across the London borough, passing many of the 39 Primary schools and will be joined by aspiring youngsters along the way as he passes some of the City’s most iconic landmarks.
Now in its 8th year, the Tesco Great School Run encourages 5 – 11 year olds and their parents to get fit through healthy eating and exercise. The programme finale is a 2k fun run which last year was undertaken by 1.2m children.
After working with Tesco on the project since its origins, Colin has become a true role model for the kids who take part. Colin’s Great School Run will see the athlete meet kids that have already registered for 2012 and he aims to get other schools around the country to follow suit. He comments:
“What better way to encourage others to sign up for the Tesco Great School Run than being put through my paces and undertaking the challenge myself! In the Olympic year, where sport takes centre stage, I hope this will persuade teachers and education chiefs to make sure sport and exercise is a priority in schools”.
Ruth Girardet, Tesco Corporate Responsibility and Community Director said:
“Since its launch in 2005 over five million children have taken part in the Tesco Great School Run. It’s an amazing event that both educates and encourages healthy lifestyle choices for kids. With everyone talking about sport in 2012 we hope to inspire the next generation of athletes and who knows, we may see a future champion hitting the streets!”
Registration for the 2012 programme is now open and hopes to beat its target of 1.2 million from over 4.500 schools taking part in the 2k run.
Cllr Nickie Aiken, Westminster Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Community Protection, said:
“It’s fantastic that every single one of Westminster’s schools have signed up to this year’s Tesco Great School Run programme. This is a prime example of how committed our schools are to getting children active and healthy in the community from an early age.
“I’m particularly pleased that Colin will be leading the way and inspiring our youngsters in a year when all eyes are on sport.”
Teachers can register their school to take part by visiting www.greatschoolrun.org before Friday 25th May 2012. Schools will receive a teachers’ pack including race numbers, posters and a guide to getting involved.