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APES students: Olympic Run of Fire

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Run of Fire - Neva Dalinghaus and Lea Kinzel celebrate the festivities by participating in an Olympic/Paralympic themed run

Alexander Park Elementary students are running to celebrate the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Last Friday, the entire elementary school, along with parents, teachers and support staff, took off on a Run of Fire, connecting to the spirit of the games.

The entire procession took off from the school just before 9:30 a.m and paraded their way up Ninth Street. Many of the children were waving brightly coloured Olympic torches they had made in school. Others were sporting Olympic flags and other sporting gear.

The 200 person parade normally runs on the path along the river on its school runs, but because of the icy and slushy conditions, they opted for the safety of a salted sidewalk.

Teacher Laurie Macdougall explains the event is a spin off on the school’s usual Friday morning run, with an Olympic theme. The children were encouraged to wear their favourite sports jersey or toque.

“The purpose of the Olympic theme is to help our young students connect to the events that are taking place in Golden, as well as Vancouver and Whistler.

“We have been studying the Olympics this month through stories, the Internet, articles and materials provided by Vancouver 2010. The students also have a bulletin board where they can see where the torch is each day.”

“By participating in the Run of Fire, as well as Olympic themed P.E classes, Library classes and Winter Fun Day, they can feel part of things. Special events such as these make school more fun and give the children unique learning opportunities.”