Seattle Parks and Recreation cross country participants. Photo submitted by Eric Linxweiler
On Saturday, Dec. 12, three young men represented Seattle Parks and Recreation in the national cross country championships in Albuquerque, New Mexico! Though the weather was cold and wet, all three boys finished strong competing in a pool of 227.
Boden, Whit and William started practicing with High Point Community Center’s cross country program this fall. The 7- and 8-year-old boys placed second or third in all of their meets this year, including the Western Washington region of USA Track and Field’s Junior Olympics and the regional competition where they faced challengers from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska.
Coach Eric Linxweiler said he’s enjoyed watching every member of the team build confidence and strength this season.
“When we start our season in September, they struggle to run even a mile, let alone one with hills,” Linxweiler said. “Within weeks, they are doing it, and getting stronger. … With resources like Lincoln Park, Alki Beach, and the West Seattle Stadium, we have plenty of ways to mix it up and make it both fun and effective. … Regarding Boden, William and Whit, they are simply some of the best kids to coach you could ask for. They learn and adjust, they have fun, and most of all, they want to do it again next year. ”
This year was Linxweiler’s first year serving as the head coach of the program. He received assistance from Seattle Parks and Recreation spring track coach, Johnnie Williams, and former cross country coach Brandee Paisano.
For more information about participating in Seattle Parks and Recreation’s sports leagues, please visit http://www.seattle.gov/parks/athletics/index.htm.