INNISFAIL - It was one of the coldest runs in recent memory.
The Chinook's Edge North Athletic Association (CENAA) cross-country championships took place at Centennial Park on a cold and windy Oct. 4.
“If you looked at the weather we had on Tuesday we were certainly wondering if we were even going to be able to have a run today,” said Pat Adams, athletic director for Innisfail Middle School. “We’re thankful for the weather. We’re happy the kids are here and it’s going to be a great day.
“We’ve been very, very lucky. We’ve had a lot of good weather, some rainy (days) and this is probably the chilliest we’ve had and this is the most snow we’ve ever had on the course,” he added.
“It’s a chilly day but the cross-country coaches will make sure (participants) are dressed appropriately for the weather.”
About nine schools took part in the event, including ones from Spruce View, Penhold, Bowden, and the Innisfail middle and high schools, along with several Catholic schools, including St. Marguerite Bourgeoys School in Innisfail.
“The kids are enthusiastic and they’re ready to run,” said Adams, noting about 175 students in grades 6 to 9 participated in the event, including 12 Innisfail High School runners and 18 Innisfail Middle School runners.
The event was just over three kilometres in length.
“They start at Centennial Park and they’re going to circle the lake,” said Adams, adding that Grade 6 students completed an exhibition run and did not have their event count towards the championship title.
“The championship is basically decided from grade 7, 8 and 9 runners,” he said. “We have so many points for first to eighth place and the team with the most points is declared champion.”
Adams said cross-country runners prepare for the event early in the school year.
“They’ve probably been practising for the last three or four weeks,” said Adams. “It’s a short season, but if you like to run it’s a great way for kids to get into shape for other sports.”
