The Leesburg Police Department will host a youth athletic competition this Saturday, April 30, to promote physical fitness, fairness and friendship with law enforcement officers.

    

The Junior Athletic Games bring together children of various ages from Beverly Shores, Leesburg and Fruitland Park elementary schools for a series of events that begin at 7 a.m. inside the football stadium at Leesburg High School, 1401 Yellow Jacket Way in Leesburg.

 

“Our goal is to show kids how to get involved in sports,” said Leesburg police Sgt. George Whittaker. “This also allows police officers to bond with parents and kids in a different type of setting.”

 

Competitions include a football and softball throw, 50-yard dash, 400-yard team relay, long jump and soccer ball kick. The top three competitors win medals – all others receive certificates of achievement. The winning school gets a trophy.

 

The children have been selected from each school to compete in the annual event. Spectators can attend free of charge.  

 

The Leesburg Police Department - with 72 sworn officers – participates in many community activities throughout the year including the Day of Reading at Beverly Shores Elementary, Cops for Kids Day, Operation Medicine Cabinet, Neighborhood Watch and a back-to-school safety fair.