Second YMCA Youth Olympics planned

By Natasha Clark

Assistant Managing Editor

SPRINGFIELD The Greater Springfield YMCA is inviting families to head over to the second annual Springfield Youth Olympics Aug. 1-2.

Opening ceremonies will kick off with the Bobby Knight Relays on Friday at 6 p.m. at the Springfield College track at 263 Alden St. The two-day event will host track and field, tennis and shotput. The games are open to anyone ages 22 and under. Registration for all events is $2 and both the beginner and advanced can participate.

Created by YMCA President James Morton as a way to get youth involved in activities, fun and fitness, this year's new addition of tennis, sets a precedent the Y hopes to continue.

"Last year we only had track and field. This year we added tennis and it's our intention to add a new sport every year," Larry Libow, coach and coordinator of Y-Speed, said.

Co-sponsored by Springfield College, events are divided into five categories: 10 and under, 12 and under, 14 and under, 18 and under and 22 and under. The three top finishers in each event will receive a medal and those that place in the fourth through sixth slots will receive a ribbon. The entry fee also includes a free T-shirt and a lunch courtesy of 99 Restaurant.

Aug. 2 promises all day events starting with the shotput at 9 a.m., followed by track meets shortly thereafter. Libow said track heats will be timed.

"This is a real track meet," Libow said. "We are trying to encourage youth from any city and towns to come out and compete."

Events will continue simultaneously. There will be a lunch break and transition into the Long Jump at 1 p.m.

Registration forms are available at most community centers throughout the city, online at www.springfieldyoutholympics.org and at the Greater Springfield YMCA and the Scantic Valley YMCA.

For a complete schedule listing visit the Springfield Youth Olympics Web site.