07/21/2025
Championship week is here! I hope all are excited to participate in or view the 50th Annual Grand Ledge summer track championship. We are still open to new participants of all ages from anywhere not just Grand Ledge. $15 entry fee per athlete should be paid at the gate. Fee will cover the 4-event limit. AGE AS OF THIS WEDNESDAY JULY 23rd. See the schedule for more information
It is with a very heavy heart that I will be stepping down as program director after this summer. It is my hope this program will continue to offer all ages an opportunity to participate in a track and field event of this magnitude. Looking back at all the athletes that have come and gone, then to again come back with their kids and grandkids makes all past and present directors feel honored. During the desert storm conflict, we had a female athlete from Iraq who was training for the Olympics. She ran the 800 a few weeks in a row. That 4-year-old who ran and fell in the mini dash, yeah, she got up, finished the event and received a medal. Family memories for sure. Whatever the case was, it really came down to participation in something positive.
Organizing this special program that started back in the 1970's with Kim Spalsbury and Jack Rarick has been an honor. It has continued to grow over the years. Just when I thought it couldn't possibly get any bigger, it did.
I have so many people to thank! The list is endless. From past program directors like Kim Spalsbury, Jack Rarick, Dale Arbour, Dave Peake, Denny Meyers, Fred Hutchenson, Mark Lambie and all the volunteers and staff of mine this past 24 years. Support from Sponsors like Chuck Block (Michigan Running Foundation), Lanjopoulas Chiropractic and Playmakers of Okemos helped keep the cost down for all. Thanks also to the City of Grand Ledge, Pat O'Keefe, and the last 10 years Grand Ledge Public Schools Community Recreation Department. I owe so much to supporting families like the Langenburgs, Marsh, Kentners, Farquers, Konens, Whittens, Thelens, Sacketts, Helfrichs and yes, my own family members the Crowes, Bulls and Carnes.
If you see my wife Mary at the gate entrance, in the press box, picking up trash or handing out popsicles. Please thank her for putting up with me. Yes, honey I will turn the stadium lights on before it gets dark and off a 11:30 pm.
Thank you all and see you Wednesday.
Jeff Crowe
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