Do you remember those times when we’d climb playgrounds, wade through streams, muddy fields, and meadows, chase each other between apartment blocks, hide, shoot berries at each other, or get up to other mischief? Yes, it often hurt, we got bruised, and many times our parents had no idea what kind of adventures we were getting into outside.
But it didn’t matter much, and we were always forgiven. Many of those falls shaped us, and they became memories we cherish even today. Don’t you also feel that it’s much quieter outside now? The laughter of children is slowly fading, and according to teachers, the number of excuses for skipping physical education is increasing. As screen time increases, so does the time children spend with digital devices.
Children belong outdoors
In 2015, surveys showed that high school students spent an average of 4.5 hours a day on the computer. What would that number look like today? Studies indicate that up to 72% of people, including young children, connect to the internet daily.
At Pierott, we believe in finding a balance. Life and technology are evolving quickly. Children should know how to navigate the digital space and use it to their advantage. On the other hand, kids should still get to be kids.
They should spend time with other children, build friendships, learn the joys and challenges of relationships, play sports, and experience new things. And yes, it’s okay for them to get a little banged up and experience a few falls. That’s how they learn to get back up and keep going.
Races for children
It’s getting harder to get kids outside, into nature and fresh air. Parents have to convince, and often motivate, them with something exciting. For several years, we’ve been organizing an event called PIEROTT DAY – a day for children and entire families to meet, have fun, compete, and enjoy a cultural program.
We decided to add a new challenge to our already rich program. Each child got the chance to become a hero in the HERO RACE. We designed a fun obstacle course for the kids. Some obstacles were overcome with the help of parents or organizers. Time wasn’t the focus – every child who crossed the finish line became a little hero.
The best role models for children are still their parents. So, we didn’t forget about the adults, who had their own much more challenging obstacle course. This way, the whole family could enjoy a day they’ll remember for a long time.
Take a look at some highlights from our HERO RACE in 2020. Nearly 100 children and 200 adults participated, cheered on by hundreds of spectators.
Here’s what one parent, Jozef Tirpák, had to say about the race:
“My son Tomáš (8) competed. He’s an aspiring hockey player and saw a video of a similar race and wanted to try something like it. There aren’t many opportunities for races like this in the east of the country. We found the race location easily, even though we’re not from Prešov. Registration went smoothly, and there was a changing area available. The wait for the actual start was a bit long since participants went one by one. The obstacles were great, with different types of movements and challenges. We missed having mud and water where the kids could get dirty, though. Otherwise, everything was super. If the situation allows, we definitely plan to participate again next year. We’re already looking forward to the next HERO RACE.”
Are you ready to find the hero within?
In 2021, we plan to hold HERO RACES in the beautiful setting of Veľký Šariš (June 12) and at the Delňa outdoor swimming area in Prešov (September 4-5).
After months spent at home, it’ll be a great opportunity for both young and old to get outside, have fun, and maybe even overcome some personal challenges. The goal is fun and spending quality time together.
It’ll be worth it
At the end of the course, participants will be rewarded with a great sense of accomplishment and a unique medal. The best performances will receive exciting prizes. There will be delicious refreshments, fresh air, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends.
So, heroes, will we see you on the course?
We look forward to seeing each of you.
Find all the information on our website: www.herorace.sk
