San Benito High School freshman David Johns couldn’t stop smiling at the front of the pack as the mile run kicked off the ninth annual Gifted Games on May 16.
Johns was among about 300 participants in the games involving students from the Hollister and Gilroy areas from pre-kindergarten to age 22, because past participants are allowed to take part until then. Johns took part in the mile run and also his specialty, the 100-yard dash, in which he crossed the line first later in the day.
The games include Olympic-style running events, jumps, throws and wheelchair races. They were held on the football field at San Benito High.
One of the staples at the games is when the runners in the mile run get to pass by the bleachers filled with students and parents who roar with cheers.
“I like that when they would cheer,” said Johns after the mile run.
Encouragement was a central theme at the Gifted Games. Student volunteers helped out in running the various events and continually cheered on the participants lined up to get their chance.
Justin DeJesus enjoyed his shot at the javelin throw, even while seated from his wheelchair.
“It was fun. It was hot,” said DeJesus, referring to the sunny day on the open field.
