Nearly 200 Lakeland and Cresson elementary students competed Wednesday in "Olympic Games," including a cross country race, as part of Little Lake School District's after-school programming provided by THINK Together. (Leo Jarzomb / Staff Photographer)
SANTA FE SPRINGS - There was no torchlighting ceremony, but the "Olympic Games" Wednesday at Lakeland Elementary School didn't lack for excitement and the spirit of competition.
The event was part of Little Lake School District's after-school programming, which is provided by THINK Together, a nonprofit, academic-based organization.
Close to 200 children from Lakeland and Cresson elementary schools competed in soccer games, a javelin throw (using a pool noodle), sprints and cross country.
"This gives the kids a chance to compete, where they might not otherwise be able to," said Ed Carlson, THINK Together senior quality assurance coach. "Elementary-age students don't have the opportunity to experience team sports."
LLSD Superintendent Phillip Perez likes that THINK (Teaching, Helping, Inspiring and Nurturing Kids), has a healthy living component to its program, in addition to the academics.
More than 300 students participate in the free program at the district's six elementary and two middle schools.
"These games build unity within the schools," said Lakeland Principal Yolanda Mcintosh, as she watched the opening ceremony.
Students walked onto the playground holding placards with flags from their respective countries - USA, Jamaica, Japan, Spain, Brazil, Russia, Mexico and France.
Cresson students Tabitha Enriquez, 11, and Nicholle Garcia, 9, greeted spectators with a visitor's guide and also helped to make sure the games ran smoothly. They aided those from Santa Fe High School's Associated Student Body, who helped regulate the games.Although both tried out for the running events, organizers decided they were better suited to their position, which included helping to motivate the athletes.
"We make sure everything is being done right," Garcia said. The students have been training since December.
"It was a lot of hard work," Enriquez said.  But both agreed the event was a lot of fun.
"It doesn't matter who wins," Enriquez said.
Still, competitors were awarded medals in a closing ceremony.