More than 300 people gathered at the Mountain View High School track last Sunday to enjoy “Olympics in Mountain View,” a children’s track and field event.
At least a hundred children — third through fifth graders from all Mountain View schools — competed, more than organizers expected. Events included track and less intimidating activities like jumping rope, and were divided by grade and gender.
As the theme from “Chariots of Fire” played, a toy gun popped and five girls were off. Their legs spun like pinwheels, propelled by hyper energy. At the finish line, thunderous applause broke out.
“I think they’re amazing,” volunteer Arturo Noriega said, adding, “Any kids who would put themselves out like this, amazing. Especially on a Sunday.”
For fifth grader Isabel Miranda, just finishing the 200-meter dash was the most exciting part of the race. “Just getting out there and running” is fun, she said, even if you don’t win. “I guess winning isn’t really that important.”
Green ribbons for participation were handed out to all the children. There were also medals for first through third place. A trophy for the school that did best overall will be handed out later, once calculations are made.
“It was cool, my first time out, and I worked really hard,” said third grader Isabella Wenneberg, who took second in the 50-meter dash.
“I enjoyed it,” said Jonathon Luxton, who won first in the boys’ fourth grade 200- and 400-meter dashes. “It felt so cool, going to the finish line for my 400 meter.”
Many local organizations came together to organize the Olympics, including Mesa le Comunidad, the Mountain View-Whisman School District, and Kaiser Permanente. Mountain View police officers were among the 40 volunteers.
“I was actually surprised by the number of volunteers today,” said Kim Jackson, herself a volunteer. “People would say, ‘I’m here to volunteer, I’m here to volunteer’ — and many don’t have children in the events,” she said.
Mountain View-Whisman Superintendent Maurice Ghysels said, “The turnout is fantastic. Just another example of what a great community we have.”
E-mail Elizabeth Lasky at elasky@mv-voice.com
