Bear Flag Track Meet

Friday, April 18, 2007 marked the second time a Sutter has competed in Sonoma's Bear Flag Track Meet. This year we had 2 kids involved as Asher and Ella both decided to race. The meet is held at the Sonoma High School track and involves kids from age 5-12. Asher and Ella signed up for the 100 meter and the 200 meter. Their excitement built all week; Asher felt anticipation since he did so well last year, and Ella was excited to be part of the show.

Ella went first. You can see in the video she was the youngest of the group. Seriousness covered her face. Unfortunately, she learned a lesson about being the last as they finished the 100 meter race. She tried so hard and never gave up, but her heart was broken as she realized that she was last to finish. She was so sad, that she decided she didn't want to compete in the 200 meter race.

Asher placed first in both races last year, but he prepared himself to finish somewhere in the middle this year since he moved to the next age group. To our surprise he smoked his heat and took first. He went on to the 200 meter and also finished first. He likes that first lane because you get to pass everyone on the inside, but he almost ran out of steam as the race finished.

The competition is interesting. I want my children to experience it, but it is tough to watch. I worry that Ella will not want to compete next year because of the bad experience, or that she will get down on herself. She made the comment that she wasn't any good at running. Until this race, she thought she was fast. Asher has won every time he raced, so it will be interesting when he races someone faster. Regardless of the competition, we all had a great time. I hope you enjoy the video.