Running

When Union Endicott HS lost access to a local golf course as home course for XC they were resigned to spend one season at a county park. It was horrible.

Being me and already having help set up a Booster Club for the coaches and kids, I approached the local youth soccer club. They had just acquired a large parcel adjacent to a UE District elementary school. With full cooperation from the soccer club, we set to work. We being Dave Cross, Ken McPherson, Rich Willis and myself. We played out a course that did not intrude with soccer, had a school cafeteria and bathrooms right next to the start and finish line. Traversing the face of the hill provided excellent spectator viewing. And while a little on the short side, it would kick your ass. It only got better with use. Coach Hynes would hold the occasional Saturday practice to pick rocks. After a few years we turned the maintenance over to the school district. Up until then, all volunteers.

Of course me being me, I decided an open xc summer camp was needed. Guest speaker for 30 minutes, then an easy work out. Speakers included local college coaches, nutritionist, physical therapist, prominent local runners. This was even a more satisfying experience than building the course for the district. Held in mid July, we topped out at 60 kids from 8 different school districts. It was great.

So, what’s a camp without a race. Camp was Monday through Friday at 6pm. THE RUNNING TIGERS XC OPEN was held on Saturday. One race, all ages, both sexes. Camp ran for about 5 years.

THOSE WERE THE DAYS.

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