 Torch Carriers Alexandra Diaz and Isabelle Connell |
CALIFORNIA - San Jose Parks and Recreation hosted the 2008 Hershey State Championships held at Oak Grove High School. The June 14 competition brought fun, excitement and plenty of action. 2007 Hershey National 200 Champion, Alexandra Diaz was selected as one of the torch carrier's for the Opening Ceremonies. Isabelle Connell of San Jose was also selected to carry the torch. The Honorable Mayor Chuck Reed of San Jose was on hand to light the torch.
Some of the meets highlight saw 2008 State Champion, Bryant Canada of LSI win the Group 2 Boys 200 meter to become the 2008 200 meter State Champion. Teammate Giovanna Raffin took a title home when she came in first of the Group 2 Girls 800 meters in a winning time of 2:36. Alexandra Diaz also of LSI and 2007, 200 meter Champion opt out of the 200 this year to compete in the 100 meters. Alexandra showed why she's the one to contend with in the sprints as she cross the line in a time of 12.7 to become the 2008 100 meter State Champion. Alexandra also led the 4x100 relay to victory with teammates Kylie Palacio (San Jose), Cydney Leath (LSI) and Gianna Hatchett also of LSI. The Quartet captured the State Championship title when they ran away to take the tape in 50.5. It was a huge win for the girls as they had their ticket punched to the Nationals and on July 30th they will travel to Hershey Pennsylvania to compete in the Hershey National Championships.
The Fantastic Four will show no mercy in their quest to become the 2008 4x100 National Champions. On the Boys side taking top honors to compete at the Nationals will be Bryant Canada at 200 meters. This will be Bryant 2nd year advancing to the Nationals, but this time he hopes not to leave empty handed and has promised to bring back the gold.
The Hershey Track and Field Program is help every year to promote youth physical fitness and provide fun learning experiences for children 9 to 14 years old. It's the largest youth sports program of its kind in the United States and Canada.
In the Spirit of Competition, we at LSI would like to wish all our Athletes good luck and wish for their safe return as the set-off to discover their potential, make new friends, and gain newfound self confidence.
