Story by Quinnen Taylor, Staff writer
The Murray State track and field will join the cross country program to host the second annual Fastest Kid in Murray and the Murray Mile competitions on March 31 at Roy Stewart Stadium.
The contests will take place after the Margaret Simmons Invitational. The Murray Mile will start at 5:15 p.m. while the Fastest Kid in Murray contest is set to begin at approximately 5:45 p.m.
Assistant track and field coach Adam Kiesler said he’s hopeful the events will grow each year.
“They mean a lot to us for the community to come out and participate in the events during our home meet,” Kiesler said. “We hope this event can get bigger over the years and become something the kids and adults look forward to participating in.”
After the events end, Murray State will host a “Track Day,” where children will have opportunities to participate in different events and receive instruction from the track and field athletes.
Senior mid-distance runner Tia Weston said she enjoys the interaction and excitement involved.
“It’s important for them to see that we interact with other people and we’re not just standing off,” Weston said. “We like to enjoy the time with them, and it brings fun to us and not just them.”
The contests and the Track Day give the program a chance to share tips and advice with children. But, aside from the experience, Kiesler said the events are a way to express their enthusiasm for the sport with the city of Murray.
“It’s important to the team to share their passion for track and field with the community,” Kiesler said. “It means a lot to the staff because we know how much our athletes appreciate the support from the community, and we always love watching the kids get excited about track and field.”
The entry fee is $10 and all runners will receive a shirt. The deadline to register online for the events is March 28, but competitors may enroll on the day of the races at 4:45 p.m.
In order for the runner to enter, the child must be up to 13 years old. However, the prizes will be awarded based on the following age groups: 4 and under, 5-7, 8-9, 10-11 and 12-13.