Northern Utah Mile provides healthy challenge, fun for elementary students
Students compete at the 2018 Northern Utah Mile. PC: Eli Lucero, Herald Journal
On May 15, 2019, elementary students from across northern Cache County will gather for the premier race of the year at the elementary level. Formerly known as the Greenville Mile, the Northern Utah Mile has been extended as an opportunity for elementary students in the northern part of the school district to race. Each participating school will hold individual competitions and send their 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for grades 3-6 to compete. The race will take place on the Sky View High School track.
Joel Allred, former Greenville Elementary Principal, had the idea to extend the Greenville Mile into something bigger and more inclusive. He paired up with Bear River Health Department representative Allen Grunig and they began the Northern Utah Mile in 2009.
Allred believes the race promotes good health, wholesome recreation, and the general well-being of students, along with the spirit of good competition. There are several runners who have gone on to compete for their respective high schools, and some have even continued on to university track and cross country teams. One runner, who ran track for BYU, formerly competing at a national level, describes the Greenville Mile as her most challenging race.
“We have had tremendous support from Sky View High School, the athletic department, and Bear River Health Department,” Allred shared. “Anyone can come to support the students. Come join us and see how much fun this race is!”
The Northern Utah Mile will be held at the Sky View High School track on May 15, 2019, from 4-6 PM.