If you saw kids and adults running the track at Palermini Field a on this crisp Saturday morning … there was a good reason for it. Here’s the story …
On the Palermini Field track, participants Michael Boyd and Josh Clark cool down after completing their 5K effort.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There were lots of folks out running and walking – but this wasn’t a track meet at David Douglas High School’s Palermini Field, on March 6.
It was the DDHS Industrial Engineering Systems (IES) department’s Third Annual IES 5K Walk/Run. It got underway promptly at 9:00 a.m. on this crisp, clear Saturday morning.
Open to all, participants who sign up get pledges from sponsors, said IES instructor and department chair Greg Carradine. “This is our third year for this event. We’re raising funds to provide scholarships for deserving IES seniors.”
Event organizer Greg Carradine presents the 1st Place trophy to Tyler Green, a DDHS instructional assistant for special needs students.
By midmorning, the event was concluding. Tyler Green, a DDHS instructional assistant, came in first place. “Coming in first place just means I had the fastest time in the 5K race. What is important is that I like being a part of the school, and the community. The best part is to be able to spend time with the students, and being able to help out, outside of a classroom setting.”
Taking the 2nd Place award is Gus Arroyo, a DDHS sophomore who says he’s lettering in varsity Cross Country and Track and Field.
Scott McCulloch took the 3rd place spot, even though he says he just learned about the event that morning. “I came to support the school and the cause.”
Three $500 scholarships were awarded each of the last two years using funds from the walk/run event, Carradine noted. “We should be able to match that figure this year.”
It’s not too late to contribute, Carradine said. “Send me an email message at carradine@daviddouglas.k12.or.us and we’ll find a way to help you donate.”
© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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