Essex Running Club Launches Junior Track Meets

The inaugural Essex Running Club Junior Track Meet was held at Hurrell Field in Glen Ridge on July 1.

As the first in a three-part series, the meet featured track and field events for kids aged from 4 to 13. Races included the 50-meter dash for children aged from 4 to 6, as well as distances of 100 meters, 200 meters, 400 meters, 800 meters, and one mile. Field events included the long jump and turbojav throw. Over 80 children participated in the event. 

Race Director Tom Eaton of Glen Ridge said: “The purpose of these events is to introduce children to the sport of track and field in a low-key and fun atmosphere, with the emphasis of the meets being to promote self-confidence, health, sportsmanship, and fun. You could really tell from the smiles on the kid’s faces that they all enjoyed getting out and trying something new. My sincere thanks to the Essex Running Club, all of our incredible volunteers, and our sponsors for their efforts in helping us stage a great event. We hope this is the start of what will become a yearly series, and that more parents will bring their kids out to give it a try.” 

The next two meets will be held on July 15 and 29 at 5 p.m. at Hurrell Field in Glen Ridge. Preregistration, or walk-up registration options, are available for only $5 per child, per meet. 

For more information on the meets, the registration form, and results from July 1, go to the Essex Running Club website here.