Students from more than 40 schools participated the fifth annual Uptown Games at the Armory New Balance Track & Field Center over the weekend.
Youth from Upper Manhattan received athletic instruction from New York Road Runners and Armory staff members before participating in short and long distance races, team relays, hurdles and other events. They also had the opportunity to learn about nutrition and the healthcare resources in their communities.
The Uptown Games were created five years ago to help combat obesity in upper Manhattan, where childhood obesity rates are far higher than average.
“I am extremely excited that the Uptown Games is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year,” said Senator Espaillat. “Over the past five years more than 1500 students have competed, and we look forward to expanding our efforts to lower childhood obesity rates in upper Manhattan.”
“In a community with the highest childhood obesity rates in the borough, it’s so important to get kids into active lifestyles early,” said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. “The Uptown Games has been a key part of this effort, mixing fun with exercise in a way that kids love. When kids come out of the tunnel into the world class facility at the armory, they immediately want to run and compete against one another. This is what the Uptown Games is all about and we will work to have it continue for years to come.”