Runners take off at the start of the 200 meter race.
There is just too much pressure on parents.
After all, Tiger Woods’ father started him playing golf when he was 3. The father of Serena and Venus Williams started them with tennis at 4 and 7, respectively.
Palisades parents feel the need to find coaches, and clubs, for kids as young as toddlers. Who knows they might could be developing the next Megan Rapinoe?
How about taking some of the pressure off and putting your kid in a one-day, fun activity that is meant just to introduce them to a sport.
The Optimist-YMCA Track meet will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Palisades High Carl Lewis Track at the Stadium by the Sea on Sunday, June 5. Registration is $20. All participants will receive a T-shirt – and of course ribbons will be given per race heat. Kids, ages 3-12, run against kids of the same age.
There are also some parent races – so register and instead of watching your kid from the sideline, join in the fun, and have them cheer for you.
YMCA Executive Jim Kirtley said, “this a great event because it brings kids from all the schools in the area together, and kids get to try different events for the first time.”
The last time the event was held prior to Covid, there was long jump, shot putt and a javelin throw and even a relay race. Ever friendly Palisades Optimist Club members are on hand to help with mechanics.
Then, Christine Chambers who was a CYO champion in shot put, with a personal best of 26’8”, went 25’3” for this meet. Optimist Dr. George Labrot said, “She’s the only person I haven’t had to tell how to do it. Some of the kids wanted to try and throw it like a softball.”
To register: click here.