This year’s Hershey’s Track & Field state meet on June 21 at the Hinsdale Central High School turned out to be a great event for kids from all over the state. Over 300 athletes, ages 9-14, competed in 42 track and field events in hopes of making it to the national meet.

A special thanks to Ryan Sparrow of the Channahon Park District who once again coordinated the event on behalf of the IPRA. Thank you to all the local park districts for hosting local meets and giving these athletes a chance to compete in this great event.  In addition, thank you to the Downers Grove Park District, especially Dan Bischof and Emily salzman for recruting all of the volunteers to work the meet and their time and efforts in running the state meet.

Created in 1975, the Hershey’s Track & Field Games is the largest youth sports program of its kind in the United States and Canada. Meets take place in every state and every province in North America, and the grand finale — the North American Final Meet — takes place in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

The goal of Hershey’s Track & Field Games is to introduce children to physical fitness through basic events like running, jumping and throwing. But the program also strives to encourage children to reach their potential and develop a sense of accomplishment. If you’re a kid between 9 and 14 who wants to have fun outdoors, or if you’re a parent trying to encourage healthy habits, these Games were made for you.

View the 2008 Hershey’s Track & Field Games state meet results.