Media Contact: John A. Stokes, (202) 673-2195

On Saturday, May 23, 2009, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation’s (DPR) DC Speed Track and Field Club will host the first annual Tommie Smith Youth Track Meet beginning at 8:30 am at Dunbar Senior High School, 1301 New Jersey Avenue, NW. 

The Tommie Smith Youth Track Meet is named in honor of 1968 Olympic Champion Dr. Tommie Smith, who is the only athlete in the history of track and field to hold eleven world records simultaneously.  During his career, Dr. Smith has served as a spokesman for human rights and a symbol of African American pride and accomplishment.  The meet is sponsored by 100 Black Men of Greater Washington, DC, Inc., as part of their new “DC Youth Movement” program.  This program is focused on improving the well-being of black children and youth through several efforts, including their Saturday Leadership Academy and creative health and fitness programs.

The meet is sanctioned by USA Track and Field. Spectator admission is free for 18 years old and under; ages 19 years old and over is $5.

For more information about DC Speed and DPR's Track and Field program, contact DPR Athletics at (202) 671-1700.