The smallest team at the Yukon Schools Athletic Association’s High School Track and Field Meet had the longest drive to get there.
Two athletes from Pelly Crossing’s Eliza Van Bibber School were up before sunrise to compete at the annual event held at F.H. Collins Secondary and Selkirk Elementary on Wednesday.
“These guys were dedicated - to have them on the bus at 5:15 in the morning to come down that day for that track meet,” said coach Joshua Korten. “It’s a big deal to be that dedicated to wake up that early and get down there.”
The 285-kilometre drive was worth it for the Pelly athletes. Maureen McGincy took second in junior girls shot put and discus and teammate Colton Wheeler-Blackjack placed second in the 800-metre, second in javelin and third in high jump for junior boys.
“I’m hoping for next year this will motivate more and we’ll have a bigger track program,” said Korten.
About 140 athletes took part in the meet, including ones from F.H. Collins, Porter Creek Secondary, Vanier Catholic Secondary and seven from Teslin School.
“We’ve had Teslin kids participate as F. H. Collins students, and probably a few Pelly kids over the years, but not those schools, not since I’ve been here,” said meet organizer James Shaw. “It’s pretty cool.”
“Whenever we have communities coming out - especially if it’s mid-week - it’s stellar. It means the kids are keen and want to participate,” said YSAA president Marc Senecal. “It’s awesome to have Teslin, they’ve come to a lot of our events this year.”