Via Christi Health has major presence at Prairie Fire Marathon activities

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Via Christi Health, presenting sponsor for the Prairie Fire Marathon, also is sponsoring the newest additions to the race series: the Prairie Fire Spring Half Marathon, 5K, Sparky’s Kids’ Mile and Fun/Run Walk that will take place on Sunday, May 5.

The Sparky's Kids Mile is a mile race exclusively for kids who want to run and compete or who just want to run with friends. Every participant will receive a runner’s bag and a commemorative finishers medal at the finish line. The Prairie Fire Spring Marathon is a great way to get kids to understand that living an active lifestyle is not only healthy but fun at the same time. The start of the race will be held in front of the Wichita Boathouse and the kids will finish at the main finish line.

The Fun Run/Walk will be held on the same course as the Sparky's Kids Mile. Come out and run, jog, skip, or walk together with family and friends and enjoy the weather and good times that the Prairie Fire Spring Half Marathon offers. Each participant will receive a runners bag.

"The Prairie Fire Marathon is a great event — one that fits well with our vision for helping improve the health of our community," said Jeff Korsmo, president and CEO of Via Christi Health. "We’re glad to play a role in the addition of a spring event, which will benefit families served by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Via Christi, along with other fine charities."

In its first three years of operation, more than $37,000 in Prairie Fire Marathon proceeds have been contributed to charitable organizations and causes, including $15,000 to the Via Christi Regional Burn Center. Hanson said, "We are expecting a large turnout for the spring event as the PFM fall race event has grown by 30 percent in three years to 4,600 participants."

The Prairie Fire Spring Expo and packet pickup will be held in conjunction with the Kids Fest Expo, which will run 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Saturday, May 4, in the Century II Expo Hall. All registered runners will receive complimentary admission to the annual event, which features a host of products, services and activities designed for the whole family.

The fall Prairie Fire Marathon, which includes a full and half marathon, 5K, youth race and fun/run walk, will be held on Oct. 13. Registration is open for both spring and fall events. Additional details, including volunteer opportunities, event prices and deadlines, are available at www.prairiefiremarathon.com.