Sports in brief

13 years ago

Turkey Trot

CARIBOU — For the first time ever the proceeds of the annual Caribou Turkey Trot will be going to a class at Caribou High School.

Race director Evan Graves said the Turkey Trot, which is sponsored by Cary Medical Center, is a fund-raiser for the Class of 2014.

The race will go off at 10 a.m. at Caribou High School on Saturday, Nov. 26. Walkers will begin at 9:45 and registration will start at 8 a.m. Registration will take place in the gym lobby at Caribou High School. This year’s race will be the same course as the past heading out on the Woodland Center Road from the high school then out and back on the Lombard Road. The traditional Turkey Award will be given to the top age group award winners (under 19, 20-39, and 39 and over), as well as the overall male and female runners.

“We hope to see a great turnout this year and really look to emphasize the concept of fitness and the health benefits that come along with it,” said Graves. “The 5k is a great distance that even middle school aged children can enjoy and run.”

A long sleeve T-shirt will be available to the first 50 runners to register.

If you have further questions about the 2011 Turkey Trot e-mail Graves at gravespi@gmail.com for more information.


Fit and Fun Day

PRESQUE ISLE — Fit and Fun Day returns for its 14th semi-annual event designed to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles for local children. This fall’s Fit and Fun Day will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19 in Gentile Hall. Registration will begin at 9 a.m.; admission is free. UMPI physical education students will facilitate the activities and provide instruction throughout the day. The university’s athletic training staff and students will be on site as first aid responders.

Fit and Fun Day is open to local children in grades 1 through 5 and will teach them about a healthy lifestyle through physical activity. According to student organizers, the children will work their minds and bodies in a fun learning environment. Activities will include individual and team building activities. The multipurpose court in Gentile Hall will be used for the various activities, such as parachute, soccer, cup stacking and more. Children will spend approximately 20 to 30 minutes at each station.

Dr. Christine Standefer, professor of physical education at the university, said the event is great for both elementary and college students.

“The children can realize that physical activity isn’t just about exercise; it can be lots of fun, too,” she said. “It’s about playing and just being a kid. This is a great opportunity for UMPI students to work with school-age children. The more our students get to work directly with children, the better their teaching skills become.”

Once again this year, the climbing wall and swimming pool will be open from 12-1 p.m. to all of the Fit and Fun Day participants. Parents need to sign a release form in order for their children to use the swimming pool and rock wall. Forms will be provided during registration.

The walking track will be open for parents who would like to be active while keeping an eye on their children. Chairs also will be set up around the gym for parents to watch their children participate. Coffee and tea for parents will be provided by Aramark Food Services. Water will be provided to the participants, but they should bring their own appropriate swim attire and snacks for this event, if desired.

For more information on this free event, call Dr. Chris Standefer at 768-9457.