Rotary Club Champions Youth Athletics at BISD Elementary Track Meet
Over 600 students compete in 15th annual district-wide event at Hopper Field
With the leadership of former Olympic pole vaulter and University of Houston standout Rotarian Mark Hern, the Brazosport Rotary Club proudly sponsored the 15th Brazosport Independent School District (BISD) Elementary School Track Meet, held May 16, 2025, at historic Hopper Field.
More than 600 student-athletes from 15 BISD elementary campuses laced up their running shoes and took to the track for a day of spirited competition, sportsmanship, and community celebration. The event marked the 11th consecutive year of district-wide participation and continues to grow in both scale and significance.
“An event like this gives students the chance to compete against their peers at other schools,” said Rotary Club president Harold Nicoll. “It’s like the fastest kid from one school gets to line up against the fastest from another, which is really cool. But even more than that, it teaches goal setting, teamwork, and the joy of giving your best effort.”
Rotarian Mark Hern, who brought his experience as a world-class athlete to the organizing committee, added, “This is about more than winning races. It’s about igniting a lifelong love of physical activity and helping kids discover what they’re capable of when given the chance.”
From sprints and relays to long jump and field events, the track meet offered students the opportunity to compete in a structured, supportive environment — many of them for the first time in their young lives. Families, teachers, and community members filled the stands to cheer on participants, creating a festive and encouraging atmosphere.
The Brazosport Rotary Club’s sponsorship reflects its ongoing commitment to youth development and education in southern Brazoria County. By investing in events like the BISD Track Meet, the club aims to promote healthy lifestyles, build community spirit, and recognize the potential in every student.
“Supporting young people through activities like this aligns perfectly with Rotary’s mission of ‘Service Above Self,’” Nicoll said. “We’re honored to be part of something that brings the community together in such a positive way.”
Let me know if you'd like to include specific race winners, quotes from students or teachers, or any photos or captions — those would elevate the piece further.
