![A Galloway Tradition That Keeps on Running]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1661432670/galloway/iyqhhh4ydlxiba1mwmma/FamilyAffair.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1661432670/galloway/iyqhhh4ydlxiba1mwmma/FamilyAffair.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1661432670/galloway/iyqhhh4ydlxiba1mwmma/FamilyAffair.png","width":517}])
by Head of Community Engagement Gordon Mathis
For the past six years, the varsity cross country team under the leadership of Coach Denny Beatty has begun the season with the Family Affair Meet, a friendly competition with the runners from Clarkston High School. Held on Saturday, August 20, this year’s meet paired 26 runners from Clarkston with 29 Galloway student-athletes at the Galloway Athletic Fields on Defoors Ferry.
Galloway coach Denny Beatty has a long-time connection with the school; his father was both teacher and coach for 31 years at Clarkston. Coach Beatty and Clarkston’s coach, Wesley Etiene had a vision six years ago to strategically focus on community building. They wanted to address the needs of support, education, compassion, and individual empowerment within our youth while also connecting diverse communities; CHS’s student body represents over 50 countries and 48 different languages.
After the race, the 55 students sat down to a meal prepared and served by Galloway parents; many thanks to team parents Allison O’Kelly and Stacy Brees for managing the event. In addition, the Clarkston students received $6000 in gift cards and athletic gear from West Stride Running Store, contributed by Galloway families and cross country supporters.
What a way to kick off what is sure to be another great cross country season!