Trail runners

We started each event with a short warmup run, then a 5-minute stretch. Sam and Nick Bennett, Amanda and Nicole Cormier and Josh Levasseur showed up each Sunday to lead the young runners. The younger runners ran a shorter, easier course at the base of the Libby Hill Trails and the older runners' course was significantly longer and more difficult. Many of the parents got involved and ran with the group and you know what? They really enjoyed it!

Even though the runners' times were kept, the emphasis was placed on a steady pace and finishing the course. One of the pleasant surprises was that many of the runners (after a brief rest and water break) wanted to run the course a second time. I'm wondering if it had anything to do with the popsicles that awaited them at the end of the session???

In the spring the Recreation Department plans on offering an expanded junior track program. Last year we offered it only to boys and girls 5 to 8 years of age and for only 4 sessions. This spring it will include a longer program and we will open it up to 10 years of age.

The whole object of these new programs is to start an active running club in the area. The focus is to get as many children as possible running cross country in the fall and outdoor track in the spring/summer. Eventually we will schedule running events/meets with other recreation departments. We have already named our running club the "Gray-New Gloucester Land Sharks Running Club".

If anyone is interested in helping out with this type of programs give me a call at 657-2323.