Olympic Challenge

Gary the Neckerchief
Slide Guru

On Saturday, October 16, 2004, the Olympic Games once again sailed across the ocean from the majestic, and breath taking Greek Islands and anchored on the East Coast of the US. No, it was not New York City, but the wide-open plush grassy fields of Crestwood Lake in Allendale, NJ.

The event was the annual Cub Scout Field Day, sponsored by the Ioaopogh Mountains District. This year’s theme was an Olympic Challenge. As 75 enthusiastic Cubs arrived eager to face the thrill of victory, they registered and received the course layout. Next, all the future potential athletes gathered to design their own medals. They proudly wore them, to each of the next nine events in which they received a star for their completed activity.

The Cub Scouts then assembled for the traditional Opening Ceremonies, and in the true spirit of the games, the Olympic Torch was carried onto the field. The Cubs, glowing with excitement, pledged the Olympic “Cub” Oath in a gesture of good sportsmanship. With the shut of “Let the Games Begin”, the anxious Cubs raced to the myriad of events that awaited them.

Scouts competing in the wheel barrow race

Mastering the high hurdles!

These sporting venues were designed to test their abilities to have fun. The boys participated in the Equestrian (wheelbarrow race), Triathlon (throwing a softball, javelin, and jumping hurdles), Gymnastics (obstacle course) Athletics (standing long jump), Synchronized Swimming (a balloon race), and Weightlifting (tug of war). This was indeed the highlight of the afternoon’s events. In lieu, of taking home a souvenir Olympic Pin the Cubs assembled slides to remember the Olympic Day Challenge.

As the weary parents and energized Cubs returned to the gathering station, they were replenished with juice, water and snacks. They all departed proud of there accomplishments and elated of the day’s challenges.

the field

In addition, kudos to the adult Scout Leaders and Boy Scout who volunteered to assist with the events. A special thanks to the “Olympic Trio Organizers” Ellen Caulfield, Lorraine DeLuca and Irena Hallen for there many hours of planning and arranging these games. In the end they felt they too achieved a “Gold Medal” when one Cub Scouts proclaimed, “This was the funnest day of my life.”

Thank you to all the scouters in Iaoapogh Mountains Districts for making this event the success it was. To name everyone would fill this web page and we all know where our focus belongs. We also want to thank all the parents who transported boys to this years event. Good Job Ellen, Lorrine and Irena! If you had a great time tell everyone you know!