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Read the press release here.

Uptown Games Return to Washington Heights

By Nigel Chiwaya | March 13, 2013 4:51pm

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS — On your mark, get set, go!

Hundreds of local school children will get a taste of track and field this month when the Uptown Games return to the Armory on West 168th Street.

Now in its second year, the Uptown Games are a collaboration between State Senator Adriano Espaillat, City Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez, Assemblywoman Gabriela Rosa, the Armory Foundation and the New York Road Runners that provides children in grades 3 to 8 with mini-clinic instruction in hurdles, long jump, sprint, relays and shot put.

After the the 30-minute clinics children then participate in competitive events.

The event, which is scheduled for March 23, was conceived by Espaillat as a way to combat childhood obesity and get children interested in track and field.

“Our community’s childhood obesity rate is alarmingly higher than the citywide average, and we need to work together to get our kids healthier,” Espaillat said. “That’s why I’m so excited about the second annual Uptown Games — a fun, inclusive and team-based event to promote healthy lifestyles for our children."

More than 300 children participated in last year's event.

"I know a great time will be had by all," Espaillat added, "but I’m also hoping we can instill good habits about exercise for our students to take with them.” 

More than 20 schools have signed up for the event, Espaillat's office said, but walk-ins will still be accepted on the day of the event.

For more information, parents can call (212) 544-0173.