Track Boy

Joel has had the opportunity to try soccer and football, but neither really appealed to him. This fall he asked if he could try track and since he was doing really well at school meets, we thought he might actually be good at it.

I did a bit of research, made some phone calls and did a cost analysis. Finally in mid-September Joel was out on the track 2-3 times a week. At first he was a bit overwhelmed by the fact that many of the athletes were older (only because the younger ones didn't come as often on the days Joel went), but soon made friends with some junior high girls, some high school boys and a few university students. I was proud that even though he was nervous, he introduced himself and connected with people.

By the end of October the training moved indoors and more runners his age came. Joel has two good friends that he trains with and is really enjoying track. Though he runs and runs and runs and does a million crunches during conditioning, he has a great time. I think the individual aspect works well for him as he competes against the clock.

On one of his first meets, he entered into a crazy long race and was so exhausted he thought he might cry or throw up. I was SO proud that he didn't give up. He decided after that to focus on his shorter running events! He also is awesome at long jump and is looking forward to being old enough to try discus, shot put and javelin. At his last meet, he did really well and what made me almost cry was after he ran the race and won, he turned to all the other athletes and they shook hands. Such sportsmanship displayed!

We are really proud of him. It's great exercise and Joel is having a fantastic time.