Nov. 15, 2011

Photo Gallery

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - The Navy women's cross country team cut practice a little short earlier this week as it volunteered at a local youth track meet. The Mids made the short trip to Annapolis High School where they helped with the Mighty Milers track meet.

"It's really nice to give back, especially at an event like this that promotes a healthy lifestyle," said Navy women's cross country coach Karen Boyle. "We're so happy to have the time and opportunity to come out and participate."

The Mighty Milers, an after-school running club created by Jen Bistrack of Annapolis Recreation and Parks, was designed to help get elementary school students engaged in physical activity. Volunteers from the community work with the youths twice per week for six weeks leading up to the season-ending track meet, which took place on Monday. The program is in its fifth year and includes over 220 kids representing eight area elementary schools.

The main event on Monday night was the mile race, where all the competitors from the eight schools each ran four laps around the track. The Mids worked with the kids prior to the races and then lined the track shouting encouragements during the events. Several of the Navy cross country team members even raced alongside the competitors.

"It's very exciting to get out in the community as an entire team," said senior captain Jess Palacio, who helped hand out medals to the competitors on Monday. "Especially when it's with the opportunity to work with kids and encouraging physical fitness."