Image: OÖN/Mitterhauser
Traditionally, the youngest ones also get moving at Upper Austria’s running festival. And that even before the big ones: At the free ÖGK junior marathon powered by ORF OÖ on April 15th, which is held in the LIVA-Sportpark Linz-Lissfeld, it is not the best time that counts, but the Olympic motto “faster, higher, stronger, together”.
As many studies have shown time and time again: Alongside a healthy diet, sufficient sleep and the best possible avoidance of stress, exercise is the alpha and omega of protection against illness. In this respect, the patronage of the Austrian Health Insurance Fund for the junior marathon fits like the lid on its proverbial pot. “Exercise is fun. And our youngest insured persons know that best. That’s why we are proud patrons of the ÖGK Junior Marathon. As ÖGK, we want to actively promote the desire to run. The Junior Marathon is the perfect child-friendly forum for this. The earlier we encourage our insured persons to enthusiastic about an active life, the more healthy years you can be sure of”, says Michael Pecherstorfer, chairman of the ÖGK regional office committee in Upper Austria.
Not only taking part, but also watching is always a real pleasure on this Saturday. Linz’s Deputy Mayor and Sports Advisor Karin Hörzing put it in a nutshell: “You shouldn’t miss the children’s competition. This joy and enthusiasm among the little ones is highly motivating and also spills over to the adults.”
Having fun is the priority. The distances are adjusted depending on the age group for children and young people. No matter how fast: everyone who takes part is a winner. Everyone gets a starter bag and a finisher medal.
In the long history of the event, numerous running talents have already been discovered, which later caused a sensation. For example Niki Franzmair, who once led the U18 world rankings, or Kevin Kamenschak, who ran the 1500 meters in eighth place at the U20 World Cup last year.
Only 200 spots left
But hurrying is already worthwhile, at least for the parents. Because for the junior marathon only about 200 of the total of 1200 starter places are still open. “Experience has shown that this will fill up in the coming days,” says sports director Günther Weidlinger. Registration for children is free.
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I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
