Parks & Rec’s runners leave it all on the track!
By Folami Islam, Facility Supervisor, West Mill Creek Playground
On Saturday, January 11, runners from two Philadelphia Parks & Recreation facilities entered their first meet at Widener University.
Representing the Christy Cruisers from Christy Recreation Center were Janiyah Brown-Jones, Khayla Miller, and Nikiese Nelson. The girls felt both nervous and excited to compete. Coach Akeem Robinson, Recreation Leader 1 at Christy, encouraged them to "run their own race" and not succumb to the pressure that comes with winning or losing.
ABOVE: The Christy Cruisers with coach Akeem Robinson.
BELOW: West Mill Creek Facility Supervisor Folami Islam with the runners.
Each girl had the opportunity to run in the 200-meter dash. They were joined by some of the fastest girls in the city. West Mill Creek Playground’s Nikiese Nelson placed 5th overall in her age group with a time of 33 seconds.
Track practice takes place Monday through Thursday 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at West Philly High School. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the group, please contact Christy Rec at 215-685-1997 or West Mill Creek at 215-685-0186.
