Courtesy photos.
SANTA MARIA — The PVHS FFA Chapter recently joined a California FFA virtual 5K race to promote and support California agriculture during National Ag Week.
The Panther FFA decided to hold a race for students at the campus, even though participants could register and compete from anywhere.
More than 30 runners, bike riders and walkers completed the route that looped around the school and then continued into the surrounding neighborhood. Student helpers held posters and cheered on the competitors.
“The 5K was something different we were able to offer our members, and I really enjoyed the friendly competition,’’ said student racer Gillian Villa. While on the course, I was even asked about my racing bib and was able to explain why we were doing this fun event. Overall, it was a great experience and I’m glad the State FFA Officers hosted this event.’’
“It was a great experience and I’m happy to say that my first ever 5k was the Pioneer Valley FFA 5K,’’ said senior and third place finisher Andrew Tinoco. “Despite the event taking place early in the morning the energy coming from the participants was not lacking and made the event that much more enjoyable! I hope to see this become a yearly event because of how much closer it can bring the students and the FFA program members together. Even with COVID as an obstacle it was still a blast and makes me sad to know that the first-ever Pioneer Valley FFA 5k would be the only year I get to participate.”
“This was our first ever 5K race event for Pioneer Valley FFA,’’ said PV Ag Teacher Marcie Guerra. “It was great to see our students step up and challenge themselves to try something new. We had a great turn out, and were excited to see student’s families there to cheer them on as well. I hope our FFA program can continue to host an FFA 5K and make it an annual event.”
Participants received a race bib with their number, a race shirt, and a medal at the end. The top three finishers received prizes as well.
