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2nd grader runs 100 miles during recess

Posted at 9:43 AM, Mar 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-03-03 13:29:06-05
Too often we hear about PE classes getting cut from schools or recess reduced to just minutes a day. However, kids at one Denver area school are making the most of every minute they get.  
 
Students in the second through fifth grades at Leroy Drive Elementary in Northglenn are part of the "100 Mile Club." The goal is to run 100 miles in one school year, all during recess.
 
On Wednesday, 2nd grader Johnny Novak completed his 100th mile -- the first in the school to meet the challenge this year.
 
He sped up to a sprint in his final lap, before sauntering through the finish line.
 
His mom, Monica Pereira, was there to congratulate him.  She told Denver7, "we didn't doubt him for a second. He's a very competitive, overachiever, and he tries to do his best at everything."
 
Classmates say Johnny never missed a chance to run at recess. He's been an inspiration to them, and to PE teacher Kim Coxsey, who brought the program to the school.  
 
"Johnny hitting 100 today, he gets to keep going, and get as many as he can get for the whole school year. That's the goal," Coxsey said. 
 
The "100 Mile Club" started in California in 1993.  After completing 25 miles, the kids receive a T-shirt.  After 100 miles, students get a certificate and medal.

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