Aiden's got moves: Freshman goes big for South High Marathon Dance
SOUTH GLENS FALLS, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A fifteen-year-old South Glens Falls High School student is "pumped" to finally participate in the entire South High Marathon Dance on Friday after more than ten years of practice.
Aiden Osborn has made the kitchen his dance floor for most of his life. Whether he's perfecting the wobble or letting loose freestyle, every day is an opportunity to bust a move.
"Aiden started dancing before he started walking, which was pretty funny, but it's true!" Kristin Osborn, Aiden's mom, said. "He's always happy. He's always smiling, and he was made to participate in this dance."
Kristin created the hashtag #Aiden’sgotmoves to share his antics on social media and inspire others to participate in the South High Marathon Dance.
The Osborn family started participating in the marathon when Aiden's sister Isabella was in 5th grade, and their commitment has grown every year since.
"It's going to be a blast. I already know it," Aiden said. "We want to raise more money for people that need it."
The community event has raised over 10 million dollars for local charity organizations and families in need since its inception in 1968.
"When they're younger, they get really into it because it's fun. But once they get older, they realize the people that they're dancing for, often they know," Kristin said.
This year holds special meaning for the Osborns. Their family friend, Brad Simon, was diagnosed with testicular cancer and is one of the SHMD recipients.
Donations will help the Simon family with the cost of possible future treatments and recovery efforts. Aiden grew up with Simon's son Parker and is now a part of the dance gang "Brad’s Braves" for the marathon. The students also sported purple t-shirts during the high school's Spirit Week to show their support.
A few months ago, the Osborns decided to go big with their fundraising efforts for the 2024 SHMD and purchased two tickets for Taylor Swift's Eras tour on November 22. The winning tickets will be drawn at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 1.
Aiden said he can't wait to dance the full 28-hour marathon. His advice for his classmates is to "Keep moving. Try your best and keep moving again."