Parents Relay for Mental Health
Running together. Growing stronger.
Join a fun and active Erasmus+ Sport Project connecting families in Bulgaria and Spain. Through parent-child relays and games, we promote mental well-being, family bonding, and grassroots sport.
Mental Health Support
Family Activities
Free Events & Resources
About the Project
Parents Relay for Mental Health is a European project co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme. The goal is to support mental health and help families spend more time together through sport.
We organize family relay races, where children run with their parent. These events are fun, inclusive, and for all ages and fitness levels. We also offer free workshops about healthy food, mental balance, and how sport helps us feel better.
The project supports grassroots sports clubs and gives them tools to promote mental health in their communities. It runs from 2024 to 2026 in Spain and Bulgaria.
Family Relay Races
Fun events for parents and children to run together
Workshops
Tips for mental health, stress, and healthy lifestyle
Transnational Meetings
Partner clubs share ideas and plan the work
E-learning Platform
Free videos and lessons for families and coaches
Our Results Will Include:
- An online platform with training videos and podcasts
- A handbook with fun exercises and tips for parents and children
- A growing network of clubs that care about family well-being and mental health
All materials will be free and easy to use by anyone: families, coaches, clubs, or schools.
Let's run together for a strong body and a strong mind!
News & Events
News
Kick-Off Meeting in Spain Sets the Pace for “Parents Relay for Mental Health
On January 23–24, 2025, the Parents Relay for Mental Health project held its official kick-off meeting in Castellón, Spain.
Hosted by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón, the event brought together dedicated teams from Spain and Bulgaria to set the stage for this important new initiative.
Representing Darko Athletics Team from Bulgaria, three team members took part in the discussions and collaborative activities alongside six representatives from the coordinating team. Together, the partners explored the project’s mission, planned the timeline of upcoming activities, and aligned on their shared vision to improve mental health awareness through inclusive, family-focused sports events.
The programme included in-depth presentations, engaging group sessions, and a visit to the local athletics track. A special moment during the visit was the tour of the Hall of Fame, where part of the host club’s impressive trophy collection is proudly displayed — a strong symbol of dedication and achievement.
This meeting marked a strong and inspiring beginning to the project. With clear goals and a motivated team, the Parents Relay for Mental Health initiative is ready to make a positive impact on families and communities across Europe.
Second Transnational Meeting in Sofia Strengthens Collaboration and Exchange
Between 10 and 14th September, the second transnational meeting of the Parents Relay for Mental Health project took place in Sofia, Bulgaria, hosted by Darko Athletics Team. The event gathered representatives from the Spanish partner Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón and the Bulgarian hosts for several days of productive discussions, training observations, and knowledge exchange.
The meeting was held at the National Stadium “Vasil Levski”, where the partners discussed the project’s progress, analyzed the results of the surveys on mental health and sports participation, and shared good practices for organizing family relay events. Participants also worked on developing training materials for parents and sports workers, ensuring that the upcoming national activities will be meaningful and impactful for the local communities.
One of the most inspiring moments was the visit to the Darko Athletics Team training sessions, where Playas representatives observed the practical work with young athletes and families. They found innovative ideas they plan to adapt and implement in their own activities. Later that day, the group continued the exchange with discussions and workshops that highlighted the importance of combining theory with real experience.
The final day of the meeting was dedicated to a public family event at Serdika Shopping Center, where children and parents took part in short relays and interactive activities promoting physical activity, teamwork, and family connection. The lively atmosphere attracted many visitors, offering an open invitation to discover the joy of movement and the values of the project.
The friendly atmosphere, shared meals, and teamwork between the two clubs once again proved the value of Erasmus+ cooperation. As the partners said their goodbyes, everyone left Sofia with renewed energy, motivation, and a shared vision to keep promoting family participation and mental health through sport.
The meeting was organized as part of the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project, co-funded by the European Union
Third Transnational Meeting in Spain: Strengthening Family Sport and Mental Health Actions
Third Transnational Meeting in Spain: Strengthening Family Sport and Mental Health Actions
The third transnational meeting of the Parents Relay for Mental Health (Run4StrongMind) project took place in Spain, hosted by the project coordinator Club Atletismo Playas Castellón. Partners from Darko Athletics Team joined the meeting to review progress, share results from national activities, and agree on the next steps of the project.
During the meeting, both organizations presented the outcomes of the family relay events organised in their countries. These activities brought together children and parents in mixed relay races, using sport as a simple and accessible tool to promote mental well-being, strengthen family bonds, and encourage an active lifestyle. The presentations showed strong participation, positive feedback from families, and a clear interest in continuing this type of activity at grassroots level.
A key focus of the meeting was the analysis of the impact of the national events. Partners discussed participation data, organisational challenges, and good practices identified during implementation. Special attention was given to how parents experienced taking part in sport together with their children and how this influenced motivation, communication, and emotional connection within families.
The meeting also included working sessions dedicated to the next project activities. Partners planned the upcoming workshops for sports workers on mental health in sport, as well as the training courses for parents focused on balanced and sustainable nutrition as a tool for better mental health. In addition, the structure and content of the future project handbook were discussed, including family exercises, prevention tips, and examples from the events already delivered.
As host of the meeting, Club Atletismo Playas Castellón shared its experience in organising large-scale athletics activities and daily work with athletes of different ages. This exchange of knowledge supported the project’s aim to build capacity within grassroots sports clubs and improve their ability to address mental health topics in a practical way.
The third transnational meeting marked an important milestone for the Run4StrongMind project. It confirmed the value of family-based sports activities as a positive and inclusive approach to mental health prevention and set a clear roadmap for the final phase of the project. The partnership continues with a shared commitment to promoting healthy, active, and supportive family environments through sport.
The Parents Relay for Mental Health (Run4StrongMind) project is co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.
Events
Sofia: Family Relays Mark a Meaningful Milestone
On June 8, the athletics track in Sofia transformed into a space of family unity and shared joy during a special event under the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project.
Organised by Darko Athletics Team, the event brought together children, mothers, and fathers to form mixed teams in a simple but powerful format — a 3x50m relay where each family member took a turn running. Laughter, cheering, and determination filled the air as parents stepped into their children’s world, running not just for them, but with them.
Though short in distance, the relays made a big impact. For many parents, this was a rare chance to actively participate in their child’s sport; for the children, it was a proud moment to share the track with their family. The races became a living example of how shared activities can strengthen both bodies and bonds.
The event highlighted one of the core messages of the project: improving mental health and emotional well-being through quality time and physical movement shared between generations. There were no medals — but plenty of smiles, applause, and unforgettable memories.
This was more than a race. It was a celebration of togetherness and a reminder that when families move together, they grow stronger together.
Castellón: Parents and Kids Share the Track — and the Joy
On June 13, the closing event of the athletics season in Castellón took a special turn as parents joined their children in a multi-event sports celebration under the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ project.
Organised by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón, the event invited families to participate together in the same athletic disciplines. Side by side, parents and children sprinted 60 metres, threw the vortex, jumped for distance — and finally teamed up for a 2x50m relay that capped off the day with smiles and cheers.
This was more than just a closing ceremony. It was a hands-on experience of the project’s message: that shared physical activity can boost family bonds, support emotional well-being, and turn ordinary moments into something truly meaningful.
Inspired by their Bulgarian partners from Darko Athletics Team, the organisers successfully combined tradition and innovation — allowing parents to understand the world their kids train in and feel the excitement of competing together.
There were no prizes or podiums, but plenty of proud faces, high-fives, and hugs. The event showed that small steps taken as a family can lead to stronger relationships and better mental health — one jump, one throw, and one relay at a time.
Family Relays Bring Joy and Inclusion to Alobras
On 14 August, in the small village of Alobras, located in the heart of Teruel, a special sports day brought together children, parents, and the local community under the Parents Relay for Mental Health project. The event was part of the village’s traditional fiestas and created a space where families could enjoy running together and share unforgettable emotions.
For many of the participants, this was their first encounter with athletics. Competing side by side, parents and children formed teams for a 2x50m relay through the charming streets of Alobras. The atmosphere was full of excitement, laughter, and proud smiles as families cheered each other on. It was a true celebration of togetherness, sport, and community values.
The organization of the event reflected the project’s commitment to sustainability and creativity. The medals and podium were handmade from ecological materials such as wood, crafted by a local artist. These small details highlighted the project’s environmental awareness and the importance of connecting sports with care for nature.
This event, organized by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón within the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ Sport project, co-funded by the European Union, reminded everyone that sport can unite generations, create memories, and strengthen both family and community bonds.
Family Spirit Shines at the Cantavieja Training Camp
Between 28 and 31 August, the town of Cantavieja became the meeting point for young athletes and families during a summer training camp organized by Club Atletismo Playas de Castellón within the Parents Relay for Mental Healthproject. The camp combined sport, friendship, and education, creating an inspiring experience for all participants.
During several days of shared training sessions, children and parents learned new techniques, developed teamwork skills, and enjoyed spending quality time together in nature. Every participant received a special t-shirt and bib number, making them feel part of one big family and easily recognized as members of the same group. For many of the local children, training alongside the Playas athletes created a sense of belonging and motivation to continue practicing athletics.
The closing day of the camp was marked by a family relay, where parents and children ran together, showing enthusiasm and strong team spirit. Each young athlete received an eco-friendly medal handmade from wood, a small but meaningful souvenir from the event. The winners of each family relay were awarded special prizes, celebrating effort, participation, and joy rather than competition.
The Cantavieja camp reflected the essence of the Parents Relay for Mental Health Erasmus+ Sport project, co-funded by the European Union — promoting family unity, healthy lifestyles, and mental well-being through accessible and sustainable sports activities.
Dad and Me – Athletes: A Day of Sport, Emotion, and Family Connection
On October 12, 2025, the Darko Athletics Team organized another unforgettable family sports event — “Dad and Me – Athletes” — held at the Private School Saint George in Sofia. Despite the cold and cloudy weather, the track was filled with warmth, smiles, and energy as more than 100 pairs of children and their fathers took part in the 2x50m family relay.
The event celebrated the special connection between parents and children through sport. Fathers and kids ran side by side, encouraged each other, and crossed the finish line together — proving that shared moments of movement can bring families closer and strengthen both body and mind.
The stands were full of emotion: applause, hugs, and proud smiles. Many of the participants shared that it was not only a fun race, but also a beautiful experience that reminded them how sport helps families communicate, build trust, and spend quality time together.
Events like “Dad and Me – Athletes” are part of the Darko Athletics Team’s ongoing mission to promote sport as a tool for mental well-being and social connection. When parents and children share a track, they also share motivation, joy, and positive energy — creating memories that go far beyond the finish line.
This activity is part of the Run4StrongMind – Parents Relay for Mental Health initiative, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, which aims to raise awareness about mental health, strengthen family bonds, and promote physical activity and emotional balance through inclusive running events.
“Mom and Me – Athletes”: A Rainy Day Full of Smiles, Hugs, and Family Spirit in Sofia
On October 26th, the Darko Athletics Team organized another unforgettable family sports event under the Erasmus+ project Parents Relay for Mental Health. This time, the focus was on mothers and their children, who took part in the “Mom and Me – Athletes” relay race.
The event was hosted at Saint George School in Sofia, where more than 100 mom–kid teams gathered despite the continuous rain and cold weather. The track was wet, but the enthusiasm and emotions of the participants were stronger than the storm. Each team ran together in a 2x50m relay, showing that teamwork, love, and family bonds can overcome any obstacle — even the rain.
The day was filled with touching moments — mothers encouraging their children, kids running into their moms’ arms, laughter, hugs, kisses, and joyful tears. The spectators joined in the excitement, applauding and celebrating every finish line as if it were a victory in itself.
Medals were awarded to the first three teams in each age category, but the biggest reward was the emotional connection and shared happiness between parents and children. The event once again proved that sport is not only about performance but also about mental health, love, and the power of family togetherness.
Through events like “Mom and Me – Athletes,” the Parents Relay for Mental Health project continues to promote physical activity as a tool for improving well-being and strengthening family relationships — values that stand at the heart of both the project and the Darko Athletics Team.
Nutrition Seminar in Castellón: Fueling Performance and Mental Health Through Healthy Eating
As part of the Parents Relay for Mental Health (Run4StrongMind) project, a nutrition seminar was organised in Spain by the project coordinator Club Atletismo Playas Castellón. The seminar took place at the press room of the athletics track in Castellón and brought together more than 70 athletes, parents, and coaches.
The session focused on the role of nutrition as a key factor for both physical performance and mental health. Participants received practical guidance on how proper fueling supports training, recovery, concentration, and emotional balance. Alongside sustainable nutrition for mental well-being, the seminar also covered general nutrition principles in athletics, explaining what athletes should eat, when to eat, and why nutrition is essential for long-term development and health.
The seminar was delivered by sports nutritionist Lucía Leal, who shared clear and practical advice adapted to different age groups and training levels. Particular interest came from older athletes, who actively asked questions about meal timing, food choices before and after training, and how to adapt nutrition to intensive training periods. Many participants took notes throughout the session, highlighting the strong need for more educational activities of this type.
The interactive format of the seminar encouraged open discussion and exchange of experiences between athletes, parents, and coaches. This created a supportive learning environment and reinforced the project’s message that healthy habits are built together, within families and sports communities.
The nutrition seminar in Castellón was an important step in strengthening the preventive approach of the Run4StrongMind project. By combining sport, education, and family involvement, the activity contributed to raising awareness about healthy lifestyles and mental health through simple and accessible tools.
The Parents Relay for Mental Health (Run4StrongMind) project is co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.
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Parents Relay for Mental Health on Instagram: "🎥 PART 1 is here! Our kick-off meeting in Castellón, Spain, brought together the teams of *Parents Relay for Mental Health* for the very first time! 🇪
3 likes, 0 comments - run4strongmind on April 2, 2025: "🎥 PART 1 is here! Our kick-off meeting in Castellón, Spain, brought together the teams of *Parents Relay for Mental Health* for the very first time! 🇪🇸🤝 In this video: Darko Athletics Team and Playas de Castellón connect, explore the track, and begin shaping our shared vision—family sport for mental health. 🧠👨👩👧👦 📌 PART 2 coming soon with highlights from the exciting competition weekend! ———— 🎥 ¡LLEGÓ LA PARTE 1! Nuestra
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2024
Project Start
2026
Project End
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
© Parents Relay for Mental Health 2024–2026.
