ARLINGTON, Va. (Army News Service, Aug. 26, 2010) - Army Ten-Miler Youth Run officials have announced that the world's fastest land animal, the cheetah, will serve as the mascot for the 26th annual race which starts and ends at the Pentagon on Oct. 24.
Since every mascot has distinctive name, race officials are conducting a first-ever "name the cheetah mascot contest" from Aug. 23 through 5 p.m. EDT Sept. 24. The contest is open to children between 4 and 14 of active-Army, National Guard and Reserve families.
The winner will receive $1,500 in the form of a qualified 529 college savings plan provided by Health Net Federal Services, sponsor of the naming contest and of the race's youth activity zone and two popular youth runs.
"Participation from the military is such a large part of the Army Ten-Miler each year that we wanted to make something extra special for their children." Jim Vandak, the race director, said.
"We are delighted to introduce the cheetah as the new race mascot and to launch a naming contest. The newly-named mascot will be part of the race for many years to come."
There are two youth runs slated for this year's race. The first race is an approximately 100-meter run for youngsters in kindergarten through 3rd grade. The second race is a 200-meter run for children in 4th through 8th grades.
All children participating in either race will receive a complimentary T-shirt and commemorative finisher medal. Both runs are non-competitive. A limited number of cheetah coloring race bibs will also be available at youth packet pickup for registered youth runners.
To avoid multiple submissions of the same mascot name, entries will be posted on the race's website. The first person who submitted the name will receive credit. The top five names will be posted for voting and the winner will be announced Oct. 18. The winner must provide proof of age, as well as parent/legal guardian military status.
The Army Ten-Miler is the third largest 10-mile road race in the world. Race weekend activities include a two-day race expo with over 75 exhibitors, fitness clinics, youth activity zone and youth runs, helicopters and interactive Army trucks on display, post race party and HOOAH tents from Army installations around the world.
The race is produced by U.S. Army Military District of Washington with proceeds benefiting Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation, a comprehensive network of support and leisure services designed to enhance the lives of soldiers and their families.
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