Fairview Elementary Third Graders Go for Gold (and Learn from the Pros!)
On March 13-14, 2025, our third-grade Falcons competed in Fairview's very own Olympics! The third-graders were beyond excited to compete with their classmates in the second annual Fairview Third-Grade Olympic games!
The day started with classes getting decked out in team uniforms and Olympic regalia! Some of the classes also made team flags that waved in the air as students participated in a variety of events designed to test their speed, agility, and teamwork.
Teachers and parent volunteers were the officials for the Third-grade Fairview Olympics. They timedraces, measured distances, and ensured fair play. All the third-grade Falcons cheered on their classmates and celebrated each other's victories! While there were victors, the emphasis was on participation and sportsmanship, with students offering high-fives and words of encouragement to their competitors.
"It was so much fun!" exclaimed a student in Ms. Kesecker's class, who proudly displayed her class's trophy from the relay race. "My favorite part was cheering for my team and seeing everyone try their best."
The excitement didn't end with the closing ceremonies of the Third-Grade Olympics. The following day, the third graders had a true Olympian experience with an Olympians Panel featuring real-life Olympic athletes! The students heard from Sahid Kargbo (Greco Roman Wrestling), Adriane (Blewitt) Wilson (Shot Put), Tynita Butts-Townsend (High Jump), and Roderick Townsend (High Jump)! The panelists shared their journeys, the challenges they overcame, and the incredible feeling of representing their country on the world stage.
The athletes spoke about the importance of dedication, perseverance, and teamwork – values that resonated deeply with the students after their own Olympic experience. The third graders had prepared thoughtful questions, eager to learn about everything from training regimes to handling pressure.
"It was amazing to see real Olympians!" said a student from Mr. Ketchem's class. "They told us that even when things get hard, you have to keep trying. That made me think about when I almost gave up, but then I kept going."
The Olympic panelists emphasized that the lessons learned through sports, like discipline and resilience, are valuable in all aspects of life. They encouraged the students to pursue their passions, whether in athletics, academics, or the arts, with the same dedication and spirit they displayed during their own Olympic Games.
The third graders at Fairview Elementary are now walking a little taller, carrying not just memories of a fun-filled competition but also the inspiring words and lessons shared by Olympic heroes. It's safe to say that the Olympic flame will continue to burn brightly for these young Falcons.
Olympic Panelists:
Sahid Kargbo-Greco Roman Wrestling, Sierra Leone Olympics Alternate 2024, US Olympic Trials 2016, 2020, and for US Junior World Team Member
Adriane (Blewitt) Wilson- Shot Put, USA Olympic Trials 2004, 2008, 2012
Tynita Butts-Townsend- High Jump, 2020 USA Olympian, Olympic Trials 2012, 2016, 2020
Roderick Townsend- High Jump, Paralympics World Record, 2016, 2020, 2024 USA Olympian in Paralympics
