Lauderdale Track Team Needs Help In Race Toward Olympics

FT. LAUDERDALE (CBS4) - The Fort Lauderdale Track Club is used to racing on the track but now they are in a race against time.

"We're close, but we're not that close. Within the next week or so we're hoping things get a little bit better," said coach Serena Thomas.

After winning numerous competitions, the team has now been given the chance to compete with the best at the Junior Olympics in New Orleans.

"Fifty two (athletes) are qualified, 36 are going to attend and compete in the Junior Olympic track and field competition," said Thomas.

The team's dream is to travel together but trouble paying the travel expenses may keep some of the athlete's behind.

"I would like all of them to attend. We're trying to raise enough money for us to get a chance to go to New Orleans," said Thomas.

The Track Club members range from ages 6 to 16; and for 40 years the club's held a standard of excellence both on and off the track.

"It encourages me to do better, because colleges, they're going to be looking at my GPA and you have to have a standard," said 16-year old Walter Tucker said enthusiastically.

Thomas said she tries to motivate her team to succeed by providing them with experiences for growth. Team members said they really appreciate this approach.

"You can go out of town, see a lot of people and you race different people across the world," Said 10 year old, Jacarria Holmes.

Thomas said parents play a big part too, " I have a very strong parent support base; they're always here."

It's a formula for success proven over 40 years and a legacy young athletes like 15-year old Deja Parrish are thrilled to be a part of, "It's pretty fun! You get to keep the legacy going!".

The Fort Lauderdale Track Club can't compete as a team in the Junior Olympics without your help.

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To learn more about the Ft. Lauderdale Track Club, visit www.fortlauderdaletrackclub.com .