Racing with Purpose: Active Plus Youth Bring the Heat to the Spartan Race

Written by: Thays Paiva De Almeida

At Citi Field, energy ran high when 100 young participants from Active Plus took on the Spartan Race on March 14th, many for the very first time. For these students, the day was not only about the competition, but it was also about community, confidence, and showing up for each other.

Active Plus, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and leadership among underserved youth, continues to create opportunities that extend far beyond traditional programming. By bringing students into spaces like the Spartan Race, the organization encourages them to challenge themselves physically and mentally while building a strong sense of inclusion.

For the participants, the experience was both new and exciting. “This is my first time doing this,” one student said, “I’m excited about competing and just running, putting all my energy into it.” Another participant, Isaiah, highlighted how meaningful the location itself was. “I’m just excited to be here. I love baseball, so being at Citi Field is really cool. I just want to win,” he said with a smile.

The energy was contagious, students cheered to one another, high-fived volunteers. Michael Taylor, a volunteer, described the atmosphere: “When young people see others being active, it encourages them to take those same steps toward better health and wellness. Watching them run around here, it’s energizing.”

Board member Sal Javed reflected on Active Plus’s impact that children were not just moving their bodies, they were learning teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

“I support Active Plus because fitness, nutrition, health, and leadership are so important from a young age. Seeing the kids out here, happy, active, and supporting each other, it just puts a smile on my face.”

Peri B. Edelman, sponsor and long-time supporter, added perspective on why athletics are essential for youth development. “Children need sports. I was a competitive gymnast as a child, and now as an accomplished immigration lawyer, I see how athletics shaped my life. Sports build confidence, discipline, and competitiveness, skills you carry into everything you do. Teaching children athletics gives them a sense of purpose and helps them develop resilience, which is critical in life. Without sports in the curriculum, kids miss that foundation for growth, confidence, and perseverance.”

Students ran together while volunteers cheered them on. The energy on the field reflected Active Plus and its commitment to build spaces where young people feel supported and inspired.