August 10, 2015
The Franklin Institute /Handout
A sneak peak of the upcoming SportsZone exhibit coming to the The Franklin Institute this fall.
Visitors to the Franklin Institute will soon be able to race against virtual versions of accomplished athletes in a new exhibit opening this fall.
The museum announced their new SportZone exhibit on Monday, which will replace the Sports Challenge exhibit and be all about the science behind sports. And no, Eagles head coach Chip Kelly didn't have anything to do with it.
SportsZone will be anchored by its main attraction: Athletes in Action, a 40-foot long race challenge.
With legendary Eagles radio broadcaster Merril Reese giving the play-by-play, you'll go up against a number of competitors, including Eagles wideout Jordan Matthews, Paralympic Medalists Tatyana McFadden and Richard Browne, and the Phillie Phanatic (who is quite the athlete, by the way).
You'll also be able to learn how to pitch like Mo'ne Davis with Taney Dragons pitching coach Dewey LaRosa and see the anatomy of a jump with a large mural of Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel, a guy who knows a thing or two about getting airborne.
The exhibit revolves around explaining how athletes are able to do what they do. Throughout SportsZone, you'll be able to learn how to stay hydrated, balance your daily energy needs, and improve your reaction time.
The $3.1 million exhibit will be located on the third floor of the museum, and will be available to those who buy a general admission ticket. It's set to open Oct. 24 -- until then, you'll have to settle for the gym.
