Cheering For The First City Track Meet

Tonight cheers and clapping rose above the runners as the City of Rockville Department of Recreation and Parks held its first track meet of the season at Wooten High School. Non-stop running filled three hours as the kids in first grade through middle school competed in good-spirited fun. The field was filled with shot puts and long jumps, while teammates continually rushed to the starting line to race on time.

With determined looks, the runners competed their best in front of the crowd and their peers, sometimes surprising even themselves. The crowd always cheered the loudest for the runners in the back of the pack, encouraging a finish with smiles. The Striders, who practice at Montgomery College, dominated most heats with excellent form.

Ayanna Upsher, running in the first heat of her life and placing first for the Striders, said "It was fun and exhilarating. Hearing my teammates cheer was great!"

Parents talked about the real need for exercise and encouraging their children to improve their personal bests.

The kids really gave it their all!