MARION – As Chris Adams of the Marion Recreation Committee began the countdown for the Marion Mile, a voice called out from the crowd of children ages six to 14 as they took their places at the start.

“Don’t start, I have to tie my shoe!” someone shouted.

Adams laughed and held up the race until all sneakers were securely on feet. And then they were off.

The Marion Mile is a six-week program throughout the summer that encourages kids to get their steps in.

The event returned on June 28, with 74 children registered.

They divide into two groups, the six through 14s, who run a full mile around the football field at Tabor Academy, and the under six year-olds, who run a half mile.

Adams receives help from Tabor Academy students to keep time and check kids in upon arrival, and from friend Jim Soden, who has been assisting him in organizing the Marion Mile for the past 20 years.

Tabor Academy donates the use of their fields for the event.

The activity is held by Marion Recreation and sponsored by Wareham Pediatrics.

Participating children get t-shirts for their hard running efforts, and medals at the end of the summer.

Cameron VanderVeer, eight years old, ran the fastest mile at six minutes and 47 seconds.

Six year-old Alex Childers ran the fastest half-mile for his age group at four minutes and 11 seconds.

“My 5 year-old granddaughter participated in the half mile event for her very first time and she had such a great time!” Peter Danzell wrote on Facebook. “She told me that she wants to run it again next week.”

The Marion Mile will continue every Tuesday through Aug. 2. For more information on the event and how to join, contact director Chris Adams at 508-241-6182.