Runathon with a twist

Lace up those running shoes, and get ready to … dance. On June 11, for the first time ever, the Miles for Smiles Runathon at Exall Park will offer participants an additional way to get moving for oral health. In addition to running, a Zumbathon coordinated by the North Texas Hispanic Dental Association gives participants the option to challenge themselves with the Latin and international rhythms of this upbeat fitness class.

Miles for Smiles, a partnership among Texas A&M College of Dentistry students, predental students from several Dallas-Fort Worth universities, and numerous community and corporate sponsors, has been in existence since 2008. During the annual event, participants run as long as they can, as far as they can, with each step earning money to benefit the Social Services Dental Care Fund at A&M College of Dentistry, which helps patients in the Dallas area who are unable to afford their dental care. The 2015 event generated $10,000 for the Social Services Fund, and matching donations brought that total to $30,000.

Miles for Smiles Runathon and Zumbathon

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 11. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Runners may start running any time after registration is complete, and Zumbathon participants can expect for the dancing to begin at 9:30 a.m. and last at least an hour.

Where: Exall Park, 1355 Adair Street, Dallas 75204

Cost: Free to participants. Contributions and pledge-per-mile donations are appreciated, with optional sponsorships available.

While you’re there: Get a free dental screening, and have your youngsters hear more about how they can keep their smiles healthy with oral health education, courtesy of Texas A&M College of Dentistry students. When you’re done, you can sit and soak up the sun, as well as the tunes of a live DJ.