Junior Olympics

Junior Olympics is a wonderful, spirited tradition in the Los Altos School District with almost 1400 participants, hundreds of cheering fans, and tremendous community support. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders from all six Los Altos schools gather for a day of fun, food and good spirited competition. The day starts with an opening ceremony and Olympic procession. Student athletes proudly parade around the track carrying their school banner, wearing their school t-shirts, and marching to the lively music provided by sixth grade band members. Students compete in track and field events throughout the day. We encourage everyone to strive for their personal best and to cheer on their classmates as they compete!

Junior Olympics is the culmination of the P.E. program and features 9 track and field events: 1320 yard distance run, 75 yard dash, 60 yard hurdles, 400 meter relays, basketball free throw, chin ups, long jump, softball throw, and 30 second jump rope. The events are organized by grade and gender. Students choose their own events and may participate in three events plus one relay. Relay teams are selected according to time trials taken during P.E. classes.

Training takes place for six weeks during P.E. classes starting in March. Parent volunteers assist the P.E. Specialists with student training. Relay training takes place outside of school hours. Parent volunteers and coaches will receive training.

On the day of Junior Olympics, we need to have all participants ready for opening ceremonies at 8:45 AM. The opening ceremony begins at 9:00 am with a parade of all district participants around the high school track. Individual events begin at 9:35 am (with the exception of the early morning 1320 run) and conclude in the early afternoon allowing all families and students to observe the relay team competitions. Ribbons for first through sixth place will be awarded in all events. The “Santa Rita Tent” will be available for students and families to congregate and check information on events and schedules. Lower graders and their families are encouraged to attend and cheer on their schoolmates.

Junior Olympics is run solely by parent volunteers with help and support from the district P.E. Specialists who work hard to train our athletes and prepare them for the events. This district-wide event is chaired by a committee of representatives from all six elementary schools. Responsibilities for various aspects of this event such as security, first aid, food, computers, and event management rotate among the schools. It requires hundreds of volunteers to support our student athletes. Come and be a part of this exciting community event!