Even rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of the enthusiastic kids who came out to compete in the Northshore School District’s track and field “Junior Olympics” last week.

Soggy fields and weather that felt more like November instead of early June made for undesirable conditions on the first day of the event, but the participants grinned and bore it well, as they tried to set personal records and help their schools bring home the gold.

The district’s Junior Olympics serve as the culmination of the elementary school track and field season and are held each June. Northshore has had programs at this level in both cross country and track and field for many decades.

They are viewed very highly by coaches, students and their parents, as they help to keep kids active, while giving them fitness skills they can use their whole lives. In the past two years, the district has been able to make these programs self-sustaining and children, in grades three through six, can participate for just $30 per season. In return, they get twice weekly practices for two months, three interschool meets and the end-of-the-season Junior Olympics. Those who can’t afford the fee receive scholarships.

This year’s event took place over three days. Each day, six elementary schools competed against one another in the 50-yard dash, 75-yard dash, 440-yard run, 4 x 55 relay, ball kick, ball throw, long jump, triple jump and high jump.

Participation at each school ranged from 30 to 135 kids, with a total of over 1,400 involved in the track and field program. Most of the coaches are PE teachers in the district, who are assisted by a cadre of dedicated parent volunteers.

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