Greek Pentathlon Training for Grades 5-8 Description & Registration
Student athletes will train in 5 traditional athletic events in preparation for a Greek Pentathlon.
GRADES/AGES: This class is specifically designed for Grades 5-8. Students need to be a minimum of 10 years old to participate.
DATES: 12 Wednesdays, beginning February 1. (See detailed schedule below.) Final event: May 16, 2012.
TIMES: 10:00 a.m. -- 12 noon.
LOCATION: Ancil Hoffman Park, Carmichael (first 8 classes) and Tahoe Park**, Sacramento (last 4 classes). Final Event to be held at Tahoe Park.
CLASS FEE: $365 (includes materials) if registered by January 6, 2012. After Jan. 6, fee will increase to $375.
(If your student is registering for Monday Full-Day program, deduct $25 from Pentathlon Training Class Fee.)
CLASS DESCRIPTION: Students will train for discus, javelin, Greek wrestling, running, and long jump. This program will emphasize safety as well as poise and grace throughout the training. Each week will include warm-ups, training and practice in 1-2 events, and cool down/stretching. Ideal for those studying Greek Mythology and History, or for those who have previously studied these subjects.
Requirements: Students should come ready for active participation wearing appropriate clothing and footwear (athletic shoes). Bring water and light snacks. Bring a positive attitude. Attendance is very important as we will be learning important safety and skill techniques during each class.
Expectations outside of class time: Students should practice what they have learned in class. Students will be given materials to make a javelin (long dowel) and will need to complete carving of the tip at home. Students may be given one or two other simple assignments in preparation for their participation in the Pentathlon.
The Training will culminate in a Pentathlon Event in the Spring. The event will be judged by trained volunteers who will double as Greek gods. Awards will be given not only for "furthest & fastest," etc., but also for those demonstrating the most grace, beauty and poise in each event -- true to the ancient observance of the Games. The athletes will dress in simple attire (readily available at home) reflective of ancient Greek times; younger siblings (pre-school age) are welcome to come dressed as cherubs. The athletic events will take place in the morning, followed by a Greek potluck lunch. Parents, friends and family are all welcome to attend to cheer on the athletes.
Parent Participation: Parents should be prepared to help the week before the event and the day of the event. We will need assistance with laying out the field/markers; we will need some help with measurement, keeping time and other tasks. In addition, parental participation in our Greek potluck lunch will add greatly to the festivities. We will also need some light, nutritious snacks for the athletes the morning of the event.
Click here for photos and description of 2008 WISH Pentathlon.
If you have questions, call Sandi at (916) 606-0799.
*Ancil Hoffman Park charges a $5 parking fee (waived with County Park Annual Pass). Or, you can park just outside the park and walk in. We will meet at the first big grassy area located just past the kiosk.
**At Tahoe Park, we will meet near the sand volleyball court.
Class Schedule (Wednesdays):
Feb. 1-29 (5 days) -- Ancil Hoffman Park Mar. 7-21 (3 days) -- Ancil Hoffman Park
Mar. 28 (1 day) -- Tahoe Park
(Skip April 4 —Spring Break)
April 11 (Make-up for rain day if needed)
April 18 & 25 (2 days) -- Tahoe Park
(Skip May 2)
May 9 -- Last training date -- Tahoe Park; ALSO: Parent prep day at Tahoe Park
May 16 GREEK PENTATHLON EVENT / POTLUCK (will begin at 9:30 or 10:00 a.m, depending on number of participants; events should be completed by 12 or 12:30, followed by Greek food potluck.)