Oklahoma Running Program Helps Keep Teens Out Of Trouble

By Tara Vreeland, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Running is one of the easiest ways to get in shape. For some teens it's a great challenge, and for others it's a way to stay out of trouble.

'Run the Streets' is a program originally designed as an alternative to traditional probation. Teens in the program agree to train for and run in a half-marathon or marathon. 

The teens who finish the training and race complete their probation.

"The self confidence in these kids is just huge. It just grows in them," said Becke Rakes, Run the Streets coordinator.

Kids who drop out or re-offend while in training, are put back in the formal probation process. 

But now, the program is open to any teen interested in participating and 15-year-old William Wood said he welcomed the idea of training for the 13.1 mile challenge.

"It's been kind of hard, but the first time was the hardest. We ran around the block around the YMCA and then we started running Johnstone Park. It's just shy of a half mile," said William Wood, Run the Streets. "It helps get me in shape for everything and I'll probably be able to run up the street in 30 seconds."

"It's always good for kids to get that positive feedback and it encourages them to try a little harder, so he does benefit from that," said Cindy Wood, William's mother.

Fleet Feet of Tulsa is partnering with 'Run the Streets' and Saturday outfitted the teens with new shoes.

They say running benefits more than just the body.

"I think especially with these kids, there's definitely a reaction from them like, ‘wow this is an amazing feeling for us' and we want them to know that this isn't charity. This isn't a hand out. This is something they earned for working hard in the program. It's perfect for them," said Bret Gunther, Fleet Feet Tulsa.

This is the second year for the 'Run the Streets' program. There are 50 kids in training.