by Kristy Kneiding
Registration is now open for the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs’ 6th Annual John Carlos Youth Track & Field Meet. This yearly event will take place at the Palm Springs High School football/track field on Saturday, April 11 from 4 to 9 p.m. and is open to all youths born from 2000 to 2008.
The track races include a 50, 100 and 200 meter dash, plus a 400, 800 and 1600 meter run. Additional events include the long jump, softball throw, shot put and high jump.
“This event always brings a great level of excitement and friendly competition to those who participate in this mix of athletic activities,” said Terry Tatum, President of Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs. “We believe in instilling healthy lifestyles in our members at an early age and this opportunity allows us to grow that initiative in a fun way.”
This event pays tribute to Dr. John Wesley Carlos, a member of the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame, who won a bronze medal in the 200 meters at the 1968 Summer Olympics. He was, and continues to be, an active and notable human rights advocate who has devoted much of his post-professional athletic career to mentoring and developing programs that champion civil liberties for all. Dr. Carlos once lived in Palm Springs and also spent time coaching track at Palm Springs High School.
All who enter will receive a T-shirt and participation ribbon. Those who place in first, second or third in any category will receive a medal, as well as the opportunity to partake in the Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation Track Meet at a later date. As a special treat to all who attend, Dr. Carlos, along with a few other Olympians, will be present to distribute medals and converse with participants throughout the day.
The entry cost for each participant is $5 before 6 p.m. on March 27, and increases to $10 through the deadline of 6 p.m. on April 3. Those interested can register at Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs located at 450 S. Sunrise Way. For more information, contact Lupe Branson at (760) 327-1304 ext. 303.
Palm Springs High School is located at 2401 E. Baristo Rd. Palm Springs.
