Pompano Track Stars Compete in Junior Olympics, Break National Record, Win Gold Medal

 By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson

 

   An organization that began as a concept, dream or idea has morphed into one of the most successful programs of its kind in the country. Run IT track team founder Courtney Gordon, in 3 short years, has embarked on a meteoric ascension for Run IT both competitively and numerically. The 4×1 relay team, comprised of athletes 8 and under, set a national record in Des Moines, Iowa at the Junior AAU Olympic Games. The 4 gifted young ladies are: Christina McDougle, Jurnee Smith, London Lee and Malaya Feby.

The 59.08 previous record was obliterated by the aforementioned speedsters, clocking a world record time of 56.54. The number of team members was even more impressive as Coach Gordon’s recruiting methods reaped benefits numerically, rising from a pedestrian 75 athletes to an astronomical 275 at its peak. Proving that they were weren’t just a one-trick pony, the foursome proceeded to run a time slightly north of the record previously set,  clocking in at 56.58 at the Drake Relays in the same event and winning gold.

In the U.S., the Amateur Athletic Union /AAU Junior Olympics sponsors the largest multi-event competition for youth in this age group.

 

About the AAU – Mission Statement:

The AAU was founded in 1888 to establish standards and uniformity in amateur sports. During its early years, the AAU served as a leader in international sport representing the U.S. in the international sports federations. The AAU worked closely with the Olympic movement to prepare athletes for the Olympic Games. After the Amateur Sports Act of 1978, the AAU has focused its efforts into providing sports programs for all participants of all ages beginning at the grass roots level. The philosophy of “Sports for All, Forever,” is shared by nearly 800,000 participants and over 150,000 volunteers.   
 According to Coach Gordon, the season never ends though there is a short break after the summer competition. Eight of his athletes qualified for Junior Olympics Games.

He had a total of eight competitors who qualified for the AAU Junior Olympic Games. Coach Gordon and his assistant coach, Mr. Ronnie McDougle, believed in their philosophy: hard work, knowing that it would eventually pay dividends by being victorious in competition based on preparation.

Think of Blanche Ely or Dillard in the early days of their existence where everything is new, difficult and painstakingly slow as far as process and change.

Because of a pioneering spirit, a work ethic and strong determination, just like Blanche Ely, Dillard and Attucks evolved back in the day, Run It has established itself as a pioneering organizational model for similar aspirating programs to emulate. Congrats Run It, Coaches Gordon and McDougle and the phenomenal future Olympian.