September 11, 2016

PACS Cross Country Teams Honor the Fallen with 9/11 Memorial Run

The Prince Avenue Middle and High School Cross Country Teams honored the memory of those lost on 9/11 by planning and participating in the 9/11 Memorial Run.  Coach Michael Palmer designed the run in the place of one afternoon of practice. PACS students ran 9 laps at a 10K pace and 2 laps at a faster race pace to symbolize the numbers 9/11. 

Running along with the athletes to represent brave First Responders was Prince Avenue Baptist Church member Joshua Warren who is serving in 121st Infantry Division in the Georgia National Guard and also is a Volunteer Firefighter in Walton County.  Josh  felt honored to represent First Responders with PACS students who were running to honor those who died on a day before some of the students were even born.  “These kids put in a lot of work, and it showed.  They are fast and will finish the season strong.  It  was very special to participate in this important event.”

Also running that day was Prince parent Chuck Wilson, a former U.S. Marine and current Duluth Police Officer. When asked about his participation in the race, Officer Wilson said, “It was awesome seeing the students working so hard.  I ran with the kids and tried to motivate some that were falling behind.” Wilson also has two daughters on the team and described the opportunity to run with them as a very special experience.  “I thoroughly enjoyed  my time with the kids and hope to do it again soon.” 

After the race, Officer Wilson spoke with runners on the importance of camaraderie with their teammates.  “Although running is an individual sport, we will not succeed without our teammates’ help and support.”  He continued his encouragement by saying, “Even though you may not be the fastest, your efforts to improve only challenge your teammates to work harder.”

Officer Wilson expressed his admiration for the coaches and athletes’ willingness to honor the victims of 9/11.  “It is so motivating to know that the teachers at PACS are keeping thoughts alive for those that died that day and continue prayers for their families.”

 

PACS Cross Country Teams are pictured with E-1 Joshua Warren and  Officer Chuck Wilson.