by Heather Harris

COURTLAND
Southampton High School Athletics hosted the Indian 5k Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 15. The run/walk start and finish line was on the SHS track this year; this run was previously in Courtland. This event served as a fundraiser for the participating fall athletic teams at Southampton High School, while also promoting a fun and healthy lifestyle for all. There were activities for all ages with a Little Tribe Trot after the 5k for elementary and younger children in the community.

Many students and teachers worked on preparing for this event. The poster and publicity designs started as a competition in the high school graphic design classes. Over 40 designs competed, and then Alexandra Pasley, a junior at SHS, had her design chosen, printed and posted around the schools, community and online.

Many students, teachers and families came out to the Indian 5k. The cross-country team from Southampton middle and high schools came in large numbers to compete and practice.

Everyone was full of energy and excitement. The Little Tribe Trot was a sprint to the finish line with parents and guests cheering. There was great music and spirited games after the run for all in attendance. It was wonderful to see the community come together to support the Southampton athletics. “This was my first Southampton High School event of the year, I am so glad I attended and was able to work this event and I loved my T-shirt!” said Gabrielle Davis, sophomore student.

This event was made possible by the leadership of Amy Davis, Scott Edwards and Marshall Leonard. Many teachers and students helped at the event as well by playing music, guiding along the course, and covering the event for the school.

“I was excited to have such a great turn out for the first annual Indian 5k,” said Davis, a teacher at coach at Southampton High School. “We have definitely started something to build on and hope to get even more of the community involved next year. Thank you to everyone who came out to run or walk and thank you to our community sponsors!”

Donations were made from the following businesses: Don Poncho’s, Thompson Dentistry, Franklin Business Center, Texas Nails & Spa, Grayson & Emma’s Garden Spot and Pino’s Pizza.

Farmers Bank donated the tote bags and Manry Rawls donated the bottled water for the event.

Each fall sports team that participated and worked the event will get a portion of the proceeds for their sport.

This exciting event ended with winners in each age group. The overall top three 5k finishers were: Luke Piferi, first; Cole Cobb, second; and Dale Vick, third.

Southampton High School athletics are always striving to improve their programs and facilities to offer the best to their students.

HEATHER HARRIS is a sophomore Journalism II student at Southampton High School.