Olympics Games in Tokyo…The Track and Field Games in Pittsfield

With the opening ceremony of the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo just days away, the games will have an inspiring effect on kids of all ages.  As a kid growing up in the days of great Boston teams, I was Larry Bird dribbling in my driveway hitting a jump shot with time running out to win the game.  On the same driveway I was wearing my rollerblades with my street hockey stick in hand pretending I was Bobby Orr scoring a goal to win the Stanley Cup.

These types of scenarios will be played out as the inspiration of the Olympic athletes propel us into action in backyards and driveways across the Berkshires.  Watching the U.S. soccer team will inspire some to go outside and kick the ball around.  Others will jump on their bike after watching the competitive mountain bike event.

With a great deal of the Olympic coverage of the games sure to focus on the track and field events, Pittsfield’s Department of Community Development Recreation Program has a great event planned for kids between the ages of 6 to 14.  On Saturday July 31^st, with the Olympics well underway, the City of Pittsfield is holding a free program that will introduce kids to the basis of track and field.  This free program will include warm-ups and several running and field components and will be held at the Taconic High School track.

Registration and warm-ups will begin at 9am on Saturday July 31st, with the events beginning at 9:30.  If you would like more information, you can reach out to Becky Manship, the Recreation and Special Events Coordinator, at 413-499-9371 or email parks@cityofpittsfield.org.