As described by 5th grade teacher, Christine Sweetman, “In ancient Greece the first “marathon’ was run between the plains of Marathon and Athens to inform the Athenians of the Greek success against the Persians at the battle of Marathon. The approximate distance between Marathon and Athens is about 25 miles, slightly different from the modern length of a marathon race.

Our challenge [for the students] is modeled after the Lower School’s Walk Across America program.” This program, created by physical education instructor Fred Speers, is designed to instill in students a life-long commitment to physical fitness. Students have a lot of choice when it comes to which sport they pick to log their miles in. They can either walk, bike, rollerblade, or swim.

What is particularly noteworthy about this first time marathon is the seven students who decided to take the challenge to the next level by completing the equivalent of 50 miles. They were recognized during the 5th grade graduation ceremony, where each student receives a “laurel.” Each Golden 50 student received a medal as a commemoration of their impressive accomplishment.

June 2004