Training to take flight

Cindy Rinaldi, a 7-year-old second grader at Marion Street School, runs in a team relay race on Oct. 20.

Many children participate in the program.

A group of 20 adults are participating in a training program to prepare for the “Fly with the Owls” 4 mile run/walk on Nov. 19

The kids, led by strength and conditioning coach Rawle “Ra” Scope, meet at Lynbrook North Middle School to train for the “Fly with the Owls” 4-mile run/walk twice a week.

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Owls don’t just fly at night — they’re be flying through the daylight, too, as local adults and children are preparing for the seventh annual “Fly with the Owls” 4-mile run/walk to be held on Nov. 19 in Lynbrook.

Runners as young as 6 years old are taking to the track at Lynbrook North and South middle schools, and in Hendrickson Park in Valley Stream to train for the race each week. This is the first year for the duo training program, offered separately to adults and children, according to the program’s creator, Cathy Papandrew, who runs the adult program and is president of the Lynbrook Board of Education.

“It gives people a formal structure,” Papandrew said, referring to the adult program. “Everyone starts at different fitness levels.” Whether the participants walk or run, they will get to the finish line, she added.

Since the program began late last month, 20 adult participants are biking, running, and even learning about how to lead healthy lives. One recent session consisted of four repetitions of continuous running for six minutes and walking for a minute. The group practices three nights a week.

In addition, different speakers talk to the group about various fitness topics at the Lynbrook Runner Shop, a program sponsor, on Tuesdays. Participants have already learned about yoga stretching, nutrition and heart monitors, among other items. Later sessions will highlight psychology, and even fall running fashions.

Several participants are happy about being a part of the inaugural program. “I am loving it,” said Wendy Chico, a Lynbrook resident. “I always wanted to run, but never known how to start.” The mom of two is off to a good start, and hopes to lose weight by race day.

Deen Sheik, of Woodmere, had already been a runner for quite some time. Joining the group reignited his passion for running. “I always look forward to it…I always wanted to do it,” he said.

Papandrew motivates the group with a weekly quote. There is a strong sense of camaraderie there. “They are a tremendously enthusiast group,” she said, “and we have lots of fun.” The goal is to train participants to finish the race, but also to incorporate fitness into their lives.

Children on the right track