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The Legacy of the Blue-Gold Track Meet

The Spotlight

The Legacy of the Blue-Gold Track Meet
Jo Pickard, PE Teacher, Coach, and Department Chair

Every spring, the energy across campus shifts. PE classes in middle school take on an extra layer of intensity, and students begin to talk in excited voices about who’s jumping, sprinting, or throwing the farthest. It can only mean one thing—Blue-Gold Track Meet is upon us.

This annual tradition isn’t just about competition. It’s a rite of passage, a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and school spirit. Students participate with their Blue and Gold Team—and for that day, the track becomes a stage for unforgettable moments.

The Events That Make the Day

High Jump

The high jump is where quiet concentration meets explosive power. As the bar inches higher, so does the suspense. Teammates are cheering as athletes arch their backs and sail through the air in gravity-defying attempts. 

Long Jump & Triple Jump

Athletes sprint down the runway, then launch themselves forward, chasing that perfect mark in the sand. The triple jump adds a rhythmic twist—hop, step, jump—requiring incredible coordination and balance.

Shot Put

In a ring of focus and strength, the shot putters prepare to launch their heavy spheres. Distance isn’t the only goal here—it’s about precision, form, and determination.

Sprints & Hurdles

The sprinting events are where the rivalry between Blue and Gold often burns the brightest. Whether it’s the 50-meter dash or the nail-biting relays, the sprints are all about speed and heart. And then there are the hurdles—equal parts speed and skill.

Distance Running

Long-distance races bring a different kind of thrill. Endurance athletes toe the line for the 4 lap and 2 Mile. These runners rely on strategy, pacing, and sheer willpower. The crowd’s cheers grow louder each lap, fueling tired legs and pushing athletes to dig deep for that final kick.

Pentathlon

The pentathlon is the ultimate test of versatility. It combines five events—typically a mix of running, jumping, and throwing. Participants rotate through the stations, managing fatigue while still bringing intensity to each event. By the end, they’ve earned not only points but major respect from their team. It’s a mini-marathon of strength, speed, and stamina—all packed into one thrilling challenge.

More Than Just a Track Meet

What sets Blue-Gold Day apart is its team spirit. This isn’t about individuals chasing personal records—it’s about representing your team, your color, your friends. Teachers and staff get to score keep and help run the events, and the entire school buzzes with energy and excitement.

It's a day when sportsmanship shines. You’ll see high-fives between competitors, cheers for the underdog, and applause for effort just as much as for victory.

An HDS Tradition

Ask any alum, and they’ll tell you—Blue-Gold Track and Field Day is a core memory. It is such a core memory for many alumni that they return to Harbor Day to see the track meet and reconnect with their former teachers and classmates. It’s a tradition that is remembered fondly.

At the end of the day, the scoreboard will declare a winner—Blue or Gold—but everyone walks away with a little more pride in their step. And when the final race is over, we start the count down again to next year.