Students and staff from Rhodes Elementary School in River Grove came to Triton College’s campus on Thursday, May 11. Rhodes’ running club, “Girls on Track” ran a mile on Triton’s track and competed against each other in various races. “Girls on Track” members are made up of fourth and fifth grade girls.  Those in attendance included the 25 ‘Girls on Track’ members, as well as the entire fourth and fifth grade to cheer them on. The club is sponsored by the River Grove Lions Club, which donated T-shirts, Gatorade and water to the runners.  “‘Girls on Track’ is dedicated to helping girls achieve their goals and overcome challenges,” said Britney Romero, Rhodes School teacher and “Girls on Track” coach. “We want our students to feel like they have reached their potential to be their best selves and lift each other up.”   Romero said coming to Triton was very “exciting” for the students. They especially enjoyed using Triton’s state-of-the-art track and facility.  First, second, third and fourth place winners for fourth grade included Jasmine Acosta, Carmen Guzman, Heidi Garcia and Ellie Gussie. The winners for fifth grade were Sofia Mattiuz, Jasmary Hernandez and Alana Johnson.  Besides physical fitness, Romero said the club teaches students ways of overcoming obstacles and keeping themselves accountable for what they want to achieve.  Romero, a runner herself, has participated in the Chicago Marathon.  “We’re so grateful to the Lions Club which sponsored this club,” said Rhodes School Principal Brian McConnell, who ran alongside the students. “This is a beautiful day for our runners to be outside and experience Triton College.”  Romero noted that Triton’s facility is “truly outstanding,” and hopes the students use Triton as an option for their future endeavors.  “It’s such an honor to run here,” she said. “This is so important for our students.”   For more information, please contact bromero@rhodes.k12.il.us or (708) 456-6813. 

Photo Credit: Triton College