GetFit Selma! is less than one month away, and event planners are still adding on activities.

This year, there has been a half mile Kid’s Challenge added to the Defeat Diabetes 5K Run to the agenda for young runners.

GetFit Selma! event organizer Stephanie Hamm, said the idea was started by a local principal and 5K run chair.

She said the idea came about because the principal wants to see young people in the community adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle.

“Dr. Jones, Principal at Edgewood School, is passionate about getting kids active,” she said. “Each year we have tried to expand the options, and this year, under the direction of Dr. Margo Jones, we have added the Kid’s Challenge half mile run.”

There is also a 1-mile community fun run and walk as an option for non-runners.  

The event will start at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20. in front of the start Wallace Community College Selma Gymnasium. The race will end there as well.

It is a timed event and prizes will include $100 each to a top male and female runner, $50 to a master male and female runner or runners over 40 years old.

5K registration fees are $25 for adults, $15 for students. Walk fees are $10 for adults and $8 for students.

This year’s goal is to attract 200 runners to the 5K and continue to grow the event each year. 

The community also has voiced their opinion on the event.

“Area runners and walking enthusiasts told the Get Fit Selma! Planning Committee that it was important to them to have additional opportunities to walk or run for different age groups and abilities in Selma,” she said.

With the increase of diabetes in the community, Hamm said this event is a good way to combat health issues.

“Last year it came to our attention that there has been a significant increase in 12 to 14-year-old youths diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and hypertension in the Alabama BlackBelt,” Hamm said. “We realize, as we adults deal with older members in our families, that Type II Diabetes is a serious health condition and one that we want our children and youth to avoid.”

Hamm said physical activity, leaner meals, more vegetables, fewer fried foods and more activity are more keys to avoiding health issues.

To receive a group rate or register a school, church or club team, email getfitselma@gmail.com. Individual registration is available at https://www.mglcselma.com/gfs-2018.