Nichols, Brookover, Sarasota Riverview, Top Of The Heap At Holloway Park Jamboree

Holloway Park Jamboree
Todd Grasley



Holloway Park is one of the nicest cross country courses in the state in my opinion and this weekend they opened it up to the masses. The Holloway Park Jamboree consisted of six races: a boys and girls junior varsity, a boys and girls  varsity open, and a varsity elite boys and girls race. Travis Nichols and Hannah Brookover took individual honors while Sarasota Riverview swept the varsity elite team titles. Ean Ormsby and Tom Connors were on-site taking photos for flrunners.

On-Site Coverage



A Parent's Perspective: By Tom Connor

Saturday was a perfect day to kick off the cross country season and Holloway Park in Lakeland Florida was the perfect venue. With its lush, natural landscape and spectator friendly design, those in attendance were treated with a great day of cross country racing. The activities began right on schedule with the varsity boys elite at 8:00 a.m.

From a runners’ perspective, Matthew from Palmetto High School. who placed 16th in the Boys Varsity Open race commented that, “The sugar sand was my biggest challenge. Especially on the stretch to the finish line.”

The coaches that I had an opportunity to speak with during the activities shared nothing but positive comments. Dr. Chuck Bartges, Cross Country coach for Palmetto High shared the following.

“The Holloway Park Jamboree was a great event!  Our runners enjoyed the challenge of running a true Cross Country course with lots of twists, turns, ups and downs.  The course was also very well marked-which was a great source of comfort to our less experienced runners!  As a coach, I really appreciated all the work and thought the organizers put into the event to keep it comfortable and on-time, despite the chaos of hosting an opening weekend event.  The awards were even awesome!  We will definitely be back again next year.”

Those on hand to cheer on the runners were just as satisfied. Kay Lawrence of Pinellas County was observing the activities from the spectators’ ridge commented,

"What these kids are doing is amazing. They look like they are having so much fun. I' m getting tired just watching them. I'm having a great time."

I found other parents, grandparents and spectators who shared Ms. Lawrences’ comments. Kudos to Lakeland Christian School for sponsoring the Holloway Park Jamboree. Job well done!


Elite Performances

Girls Highlights

Boys Highlights