A President, A Pass, and a Promise

     It was an unexpected Pass, but it was performed at the right time. Due to an economic recession (and they are as cyclical as the seasons) the Governor had to suspend funding for the Empire State Games. Many thought that this would mean no State Track & Field Championship. But just when it looked like the baton might be dropped, the Empire State Liberty Tour Track & Field Series reached back to grab it, and the 2009 President’s Open at Ichabod Crane High School on June 13th & 14th, became the Adirondack Association Qualifying Trials for the Empire State Track & Field Championships, which will be hosted at Queensbury High School July 24th – 26th. “At first we just wanted to put Humpty together again, but after a thorough dissection, it made more sense to build a new model”, says Empire State Liberty Tour Executive Producer Anthony Mills. He adds, “This new look is for everyone. We have created a true Track & Field Championship Event, which allows for all four (4) age divisions to compete at the same meet. Rather than segregate the Masters athletes, and have them perform in front of an empty stadium, we have provided a stage where their talents may be witnessed by the younger generations looking to become a true ‘Master’ of an event.” And Anthony Mills Jr. (Pictured Above) shows near perfect form for all aspiring Javelin Throwers to study, as he sets a new President’s Open record in the Open Men’s Javelin.

    There are Four (4) Qualifying Trials around the Empire State that cover Adirondack, Long Island, New York City (MAC), and Niagara. The top four (4) finishers will advance to the Empire State Track & Field Championships. If each roster spot for a USATF Association is not filled by an athlete that competed at the Trials, then it is possible, for those athletes that did not compete at the Trials, to Register for the Empire State Track & Field Championships by submitting their performances and sending along the appropriate entry fees. According to USATF Adirondack President, Chris Rush, “We are both pleased and excited to support and sanction the Empire State Liberty Tour’s Qualifying Trials, and the three (3) day New York State Track & Field Championships. It will offer an opportunity for athletes of all ages to participate in a first class event.” This covers point two (2), the President.

 

     The Promise is the key to being a successful leader. “The selection of ‘teams’ through local competition by each NYS Association will ensure that each County in the State has the opportunity to participate”, says Dave Herrington, Former Adirondack Men’s Coach for the Empire State Games. He adds, “The 2009 Empire State Liberty Tour Track & Field Championships has the potential to develop and recognize some of the best athletes in New York State.” According to Anthony Mills, the “NEW” Championship Event is fully prepared for more than 1,200 athletes to compete at Queensbury High School in July, and that the Private Sector is fully committed to working with this event in 2010 as well. He states, “This is more than just a one time thing. We promise to return in 2010 with more excitement, competition, and fun. That is truly what the folks want!”

 

      For more exciting pictures of Record Breaking Performances from the President’s Open, just scroll down.