Suncoast Striders Walking and Running Club awards their annual running camp scholarship to outstanding local runner Sydney Britt, a sophomore at Manatee High School who runs both cross country and track.
The Suncoast Striders Walking & Running Club already promotes a healthy and fit way of life through weekly training walks and runs and numerous community events. One way they focus on the youth in the community is by offering an annual scholarship to help high school distance runners attend summer running camp. Running camp is a valuable experience for any cross country runner hoping to take it to the next level because it exposes them to other athletes from outside their competition area, different coaches and coaching styles, new workouts and ways of training.
Sydney Britt is a sophomore at Manatee High School who just finished her second year as a varsity letter winner in both cross country and track despite it being her first year of official participation in both sports. An FHSAA bylaw ruled her ineligible to participate her entire freshman year since her 8th grade club soccer coach also coached varsity soccer at Manatee High and she was attending MHS through school choice. Despite not being able to participate in a cross country meet, soccer game, or track meet, she showed up at every practice, worked hard every day, and attended every meet and game to support her teams. She knew her hard work freshman year would help elevate her to success the following year and it did! She was the cross country team’s fastest runner all season and a regional qualifier in track in her first official season on these teams. When she is not running or playing soccer, Sydney volunteers her time with her service club, Mam’Selles, giving back to our local community. Despite playing soccer for most of her life, she has decided to give up soccer to pursue her dreams in cross country and track and field. Attending running camp and track and field camp this summer are just part of her dedication and determination to be her best in both disciplines.
The $300 Suncoast Striders scholarship will help Sydney attend Warrior Running Camp this summer. At Warrior, they separate the campers into smaller groups based on their running ability which allows for a fun and safe running camp experience where campers will feel comfortable and have a great time. In addition to training and learning, they offer a large variety of sports, games, and activities. It is a true summer camp for runners.
ABOUT Suncoast Striders - The mission of the Suncoast Striders is to promote walking and running as a way to achieve a healthy and fit way of life through group training opportunities, community events, and coaching. Club membership is open to anyone interested in walking or running. Coaches and mentors are available and willing to help beginners get started.