If your children love running, or want to learn the tips that would help them enjoy running and improve, here is an opportunity to do that. There will be a running camp from 8 a.m. to noon June 9-13 at Ridgeview High School.

While there is no lack of young athletes in our area, they - and their parents - had to be prepared to log some travel time to reach a running camp and the cost could get expensive.

Camp Director Vicky Connell said that the Florida Striders have assembled an excellent group of coaches and instructors who are volunteering their time to help pass along their love of running and the information that can make running an enjoyable part of a healthy lifestyle. The cost of the camp is $30.

The Florida Striders, a nonprofit running club whose members have long supported elementary school Run/Walk programs, provided scholarships and supported junior high cross country teams, felt their was a lack of a good summer running camp opportunity this area and agreed to become involved.

The camp is designed for both beginning athletes as well as those who want to sharpen their skills for the next track or cross country season.

"Nobody should think they are not fast enough to participate in this camp because it is all about learning to reach individual goals and enjoying the process," Connell said.

Some of the areas covered in the camp include the right way to warm up and cool down, stretching, nutrition, hydration, strength training, cross-training, goal setting and race strategy. Registration is limited and must be received no later than May 9. Additional information can be obtained at www.floridastriders.com/childrens.html or by calling Connell at 276-0193.