THUNDER BAY -- Children in public schools are hitting the track in record numbers.
According to Matt Steele, a convener for Lakehead Elementary Athletics, the 1,452 athletes participating is an all-time high.
“We have roughly 26 schools, all of which have been practicing as soon as the snow is gone and the ground is melted,” Steele said.
“We’re also seeing a resurgence with Lakehead Thunderwolves track, and other track clubs that have encouraged today’s youth to start participating in track and field events.”
Steele also mentioned the addition of an event for grade seven and eight students has helped increase this year’s numbers.
One student who on Tuesday stood out against the field was Owen Loubier.
Loubier, a sixth-grade student from Nor'wester View, set a new local record for fastest 200-metre dash.
“I’m pretty proud of myself. I’ve been training lots with hockey… it definitely paid off.”
Loubier was unsure whether he was going to be able to race after pulling his hamstring a few days prior.
“The physiotherapist said I might not be able to race. He said it was my choice,” Loubier said.
Ultimately, Loubier decided to run and amazingly broke the record despite feeling a little “funky.”
“As soon as I took off I started feeling it, everyone was telling me I was running a little weird.”
Holly Weisflock was injury-free in the high jump, but said she was surprised she took home first in the event.
“I chose it because we practice it in our gym,” said the seventh-grade student. “I thought it was kind of fun, and I went in it.”
