Around 400 students and staff, along with numerous parents participated in the 17th annual Fun Run hosted by Superior Elementary School.

It’s become a welcome tradition for all involved as the location rotates between the three county schools each spring.

The idea developed after employees of the Mineral County Health Department attended a conference where one of the speakers shared fun ways to increase physical activities with children. The first few years only 5th and 6th graders participated, but as it grew in popularity, it was expanded to include all elementary students.

There are 1-mile and 5K courses, and if not running themselves, the school staff along with other volunteers are directing traffic, serving lunch and every other duty it takes to make a run successful. It continues to grow each year in numbers but also side attractions like mascots, guest speakers and even a health and fitness expo.

The MCHD helps the schools organize, which has become a tactical plan calling for efforts from each community. Fire, law enforcement, health care providers, schools and families all come together for a fun activity that gets kids and the community moving.

Everyone pitches in to cover costs and share the load with Run Wild Missoula and The Runner’s Edge lending their inflatable arch, timing clock, hand timers, and race bibs to make the event extra special. Once the finish line was crossed, participants jumped into the chow line on the Superior Elementary School playground. This distribution line was also well organized as sandwiches, apples, beverages and healthy treats were gathered and then a seat with friends was found to relax and enjoy the remainder of the sunny morning.

Each of the three schools returned to class with school pride banners to promote the expectations of student conduct and rally school spirit with each district’s unique motto, mascot and school colors. These were sponsored by Prevention Services through the Western Montana Mental Health Center.

According to the Montana Prevention Needs Assessment, which is a survey conducted with 8th, 10th, and 12th graders during even numbered years focusing on health risk behaviors, research on risk and protective factors has important implications on children’s academic success, positive youth development and prevention of health and behavior problems.

“Protective factors, also known as ‘assets’, are things that we as the community can do that buffers youth from risky behaviors such as substance abuse,” explained Anna Schreck, Prevention Specialist for Mineral County. “The Fun Run that the MCH Health organizes is a wonderful way to promote exercise and health, connection to the community and school pride for the students. Connection and commitment to their school and to their community is a protective factor for youth.”

First place in the 5K was Jaxon Stedman and first place in the 1-miler was Stetsyn Stedman.

St. Regis School won the overall time for the 5K and will house the traveling trophy for the year when Alberton becomes the host.