Students Do the Turkey Trot

The Vanderbilt Elementary Physical Education Department recently held its 14th annual Turkey Trot Run.  The 300-yard timed run is a means to inspire lifetime physical fitness and activity across each grade level. 

During the year, Vanderbilt students learn about the components of physical fitness, the various muscles used, and the importance of being physically active. A major component that students practice every day is cardiovascular or aerobic fitness.

The Turkey Trot requires students to cross the finish line, regardless of the intensity of the aerobic movement, whether it's walking, jogging, running or sprinting. 

All students were rewarded for finishing the Turkey Trot with pride and praise, and a certificate of accomplishment.  Boys and girls who finish with the three fastest times in each grade level (first through fifth) are recognized with an additional certificate, and a prize for their running time.

Vanderbilt Physical Education teacher John Schroeder said,  "The children practice and train weeks before the race during our physical education classes.  They are motivated by having their scores posted in school, and of course being recognized by their peers." 

"The children worked extremely hard this year, and another school record was tied by Robert Leamey, a fifth grader who ran an amazing race," said Physical Education teacher Amanda Strack. "The students this year ran exceptionally well during the warm and dry conditions.  This was truly a job well done by all the students at Vanderbilt Elementary School, and once again the race was a huge success," she added.