What is Junior Leggers?
Junior Leggers is LA Leggers’ youth running pilot program designed for elementary-aged children (grades 2-5) to discover the joy of movement alongside their parents and peers. Every Sunday morning, we meet at The Wall in Santa Monica for themed run/walk adventures that build endurance, confidence, and community.
This isn’t just about running, it’s about creating memorable Sunday morning experiences where kids learn that movement can be fun, challenging, and rewarding.
Program Highlights:
🎯 Walk/run method that gradually builds from 1 mile to 5K (3.1 miles)
🎨 Weekly themed adventures (Scavenger Hunts, Color Quests, Superhero Sunday!)
👨👩👧👦 Parents run alongside their children
🏅 Culminates in the LA Marathon 5K (Saturday, March 7)
🎉 Includes t-shirt, weekly snacks, and end-of-season celebration (Sunday, March 15)
Winter 2026 Session
Dates: January 18 – March 8 (8 weeks) plus celebration on March 15
Registration Opens: December 9, 2025
Registration Deadline: January 10, 2026 (or when full)
Spots Available: Limited to the first 20 children who register
Program includes:
✓8 Sunday morning sessions
✓ Junior Leggers t-shirt
✓ Weekly healthy snacks & hydration
✓ Completion certificate
✓ End-of-season BBQ celebration
Meet Your Mentors
Led by Experienced Runners & Educators
Jeff Tan
Former LA Leggers president, ultramarathoner, and current head mentor of the 9/9.5’s pace group. As a parent of a 3rd grader at Franklin Elementary, Jeff brings both running expertise and a deep understanding of what makes kids excited about movement.
Jill Armington
Mentor of the 9/9.5’s pace group and former 3rd grade teacher currently working in the nonprofit education sector. Jill knows how to make learning – and running – fun, engaging, and age-appropriate.
Both mentors have completed child safety training including RRCA’s Abuse Awareness and California AB 506 Mandated Reporter Training.
Why Junior Leggers?
The Benefits Go Beyond Running
For Kids:
- Build healthy habits from a young age
- Develop confidence and resilience
- Make lasting friendships
- Learn that challenges can be fun
- Experience the pride of accomplishing a big goal
For Parents:
- Quality time with your child
- Model healthy lifestyle habits
- Be part of a supportive community
- Create lasting memories
- Watch your child discover their strength
For Families:
- Strengthen family bonds through shared activity
- Connect with other LA Leggers families
- Build traditions around movement and wellness
- Experience the power of community support
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What age/grade is eligible?
A: This is intended for elementary-aged children in grades 2-5. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Q: Does my child need running experience?
A: Not at all! We use a walk/run method designed for beginners. Every child moves at their own pace.
Q: What if my child can’t run the full distance?
A: That’s completely fine! Walking is encouraged. The goal is to keep moving and have fun, not to run continuously. Each week we will add on an additional quarter-mile, and before you know it, your child will be able to handle the 5K
Q: Do I have to be a Leggers member?
A: The program is designed for Leggers families, but non-members are welcome with a signed waiver and are encouraged to join the club.
Q: What if we miss a session?
A: We understand life happens! We recommend you and your child find time to run together in the meantime and rejoin the group the following week.
Q: What’s the weather policy?
A: We run rain or shine! In case of severe weather (heavy rain, lightning, extreme heat), we’ll notify families by 6:30am on Sunday.
Q: Can siblings attend if they’re younger/older?
A: While this pilot program is intended for grades 2-5, we understand siblings might want/need to join. They can do so with parent supervision.
Q: What if my child has allergies or medical needs?
A: Please inform us during registration. We’ll work with you to ensure your child’s safety and comfort.
Q: What happens after the LA Marathon 5K?
A: Depending on the success of the 8-week pilot program, we may extend Junior Leggers throughout the rest of the school year.
Q: How much does this cost?
A: We are not charging for participation in the pilot program, though you must be a paying member of the Leggers for your child to participate. We will reevaluate costs for future sessions following the pilot and may charge a small additional fee as an extension of the adult Leggers membership.
