TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Hundreds of children ran in the Publix “Too Good for Drugs” Jr. Gasparilla Distance Classic Saturday morning.

Around 900 children got medals after crossing the finish line at Thomas Jefferson High School.

For the races, the ages ranged from 2 to 10 years old, with children participating in the 30-yard dash to running a mile.

Each child that ran took off towards the start line of a healthier lifestyle.

“It’s all about fun, wholesome fun. At the same time, we want to instill in them that they are too good for drugs, and we want them to learn about living a healthy life with good nutrition, giving themselves goals,” said Race Director Susan Harmeling.

This race marked the 34th running of the event, involving everyone and their families, from running to cheering.

“I came out here because well, running is one of my favorite things, and also, it’s just fun to do something new,” said Juliana Pagan, a 10-year-old participant.

The event pushes the message that children are too good for drugs while emphasizing overall health and nutrition. It is a message that resonates with parents like Lonnie Pumphrey.

“I come from a background of craziness. My mom definitely kept me away from all that, so keeping me in football, whether it’s football or track, basketball, baseball, she kept me around the youth back in the day,” Pumphrey said. “So, of course, the message is definitely there. It needs to be out there a lot more.”

This run was put on by partners and sponsors like Publix and The Mendez Foundation. It takes months of planning to make happen, but organizers said it gives families the chance to make memories and enjoy the sunshine.

“The kids. Seeing the little kids run and smile and finish with the big shirts and then they get their medals. They’re so happy,” Operations Manager Ashley Kincaid said. “It just makes everything worth it and you forget all the early mornings or the late nights and the heavy barricades.”

Every child crossed the finish line with a smile.

“Just don’t give up before actually knowing that you can’t do it,” Pagan said.

The big race, the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic, will be held next weekend on Feb. 22 and 23,w here organizers are expecting at least 21,000 participants.