Fit & Unified: High school students compete in track competition

Several high schools participated in the Unified Track Meet on March 31, bringing together athletes of all abilities to compete in an inclusive and supportive environment.

More than 50 students from Bayside, Ocean Lakes and Tallwood high schools participated.

In partnership with Special Olympics, students with disabilities participated with their general education peers in events that include the 100-meter dash, softball throw, long jump and the 4 by 100 meter relay. The Army National Guard provided an activity as well.

Student Brinda Hankienson high-fives after her long jump.

The afternoon started with warm-up stretches and cheers, which got Bayside student Brinda Hankienson in the spirit.

“I can’t hear you!” she said, encouraging more applause from the participants. The athletes then broke off into different competitions, while Mother Nature offered a mix of sunny warmth and refreshing sprinkles.

When Brenda finished the long jump, she high-fived another student and exclaimed, “I feel good!”

Student organizations such as the Key Club and the Mighty Marlins were full participants. And Bayside’s track teams took part in the relay with the other competitors.

“It’s important to get the adapted learning students involved in sports,” said Bayside senior Peyton May-Parker, one of the student volunteers.

Health and physical education teacher Maurika Dutton coordinated the event, which was started several years ago by a former staff member Jennifer Vedder.

Health and physical education teacher Maurika Dutton and former Bayside staff member Jennifer Vedder congratulate student Brinda Hankienson.

“These students need to compete,” said Vedder, who is now a health and physical education specialist with the Virginia Department of Education. “These are kids who don’t always get to be involved in activities.”

At the track meet, parents cheered from the sidelines and bleachers. Olivia Irvin proudly watched her son, Kenneth Copeland Jr., compete.

“He did the long jump and he did the softball throw,” Irvin said with a big smile. “This is awesome.”

Bayside principal Troy Walton was glad to see the students, staff, parents and community partners come out and support the competition.

“This event aligns with our commitment to inclusivity and provides an opportunity for our students to engage in meaningful competition while fostering teamwork and sportsmanship,” he said.