Beyond the Finish Line:
How 100 Mile Club Builds More Than Just Runners
We often talk about the importance of physical activity for children, but what if a program could offer so much more than just exercise? What if it could ignite a spark of self-belief, foster leadership, and even create new family bonds? Nathaniel’s journey with 100 Mile Club is a powerful testament to just that.
As shared by his mom Trisha Contreras, Nathaniel, a 5th grader, has always been a keen participant in the 100 Mile Club, consistently hitting his 100-mile mark. But this past year, something shifted. He developed a profound sense of leadership through his role on the 100 Mile Club committee, a student leadership group supporting the campus coach to implement the program. Then, in February, he set an ambitious new goal: to be the top runner at his school.
This wasn’t just about logging miles anymore; it was about discovering his own capabilities. Nathaniel’s determination was infectious, involving his entire family in running events and sparking what his mother, Trisha, called a “fun new hobby” for them all. He balanced soccer practices with his new running passion, culminating in a fantastic 2nd place finish in his age group at the Run4Kids 5K.
By the end of the school year, Nathaniel didn’t just meet his goal; he smashed it, topping the school charts with an incredible 251 miles! Imagine the pride and confidence as he walked up to accept his award at the school assembly, “brimming with confidence and determination, knowing he could accomplish great things,” his mother fondly recalls.
Nathaniel’s story highlights the multifaceted benefits of 100 Mile Club:
- Building Confidence and Self-Efficacy: What started as a love for running transformed into a profound understanding of his own potential. The program provided the framework for him to set a challenging goal and, more importantly, to achieve it.
- Fostering Leadership Skills: His involvement in the 100 Mile Club committee gave him a tangible sense of responsibility and leadership within his school community.
- Encouraging Family Engagement: Nathaniel’s personal goal became a catalyst for his family to engage in a healthy, fun activity together, strengthening their bond.
- Promoting Goal Setting and Perseverance: Despite the late start in February, Nathaniel’s unwavering focus and hard work demonstrate the invaluable life skills of setting goals and persevering through challenges.
- Creating Lasting Positive Impacts: As Trisha aptly put it, the 100 Mile Club has given Nathaniel “something truly special that will stick with him for life.” It’s not just about the miles run, but the character built along the way.
Nathaniel’s shout-out to his coach, Jaime Bettencourt, and his family underscores the importance of a supportive environment in a child’s development. 100 Mile Club, through dedicated coaches and a well-structured program, truly empowers children to push their limits and discover the amazing things they are capable of. It’s no wonder Nathaniel is already counting down to next school year!
