The Less Fork More Foot 5K Race and Fun Run was a success again in its second year! This family-friendly race was held on Sunday April 27, 2008 at the Embassy Suites in Cary. Despite scares of rain, participants and volunteers came out to be physically active and support childhood obesity prevention. A portion of race proceeds will be donated to the Alice Aycock Poe Center for Health Education, in support of their efforts to combat childhood obesity. When asked about the motivating factors for Michael Harvey and his two children to participate in the race, he said: “The race benefited a very worthy cause... we made the race a family affair: my son and daughter ran it too”.

The event kicked off at 2pm with 108 runners on the 5K course. Runners ranged in age from 5 years to 70+ years! Children ages three through ten who did not participate in the 5K were given the opportunity to participate in one of three 100 yard “Fun Runs”. Con Elementary School teacher, Jeff Kimbro participated in the race along with a group of his students and their parents. “By encouraging students to participate in a great number of activities, I can increase the odds that they will find one that they enjoy and therefore will increase their odds of lifetime participation.” Said the coach when asked how he promotes physical activity to children. 

All race participants were eligible for fantastic door prizes, which the race planning committee was able to secure from the long list of race sponsors. Prizes included rounds of golf and a hockey stick signed by the entire Carolina Hurricanes team! At the race site, healthy snack offerings, healthy vendors, the musical talents of the SAS band Audio Kudzu, and fantastic weather came together to create an environment of excitement and fun for all! “I've run in it both years and I'm always impressed with the organization, band, and prizes!" said Mandy Smith, a race participant

Our hats go off to Amy Buehrle, race coordinator, and her committee! Congratulations on a phenomenal event! Thank you for making childhood obesity prevention a priority. We wish you much success for next year’s event.