Local gymnasts earn awards at 5K

NEWTON — The Newton Pride organization recently held its second annual 5K Stride in an effort to raise money for their organization.

Giant Gymnastics, of Sparta, owners Jennifer and John Skorski, and residents of Newton, encouraged their competitive gymnastics team to compete in the 5K.

Participating in area 5K’s has become a tradition for the Garden Gators. Each year they compete in up to four different 5K races in hopes of not only assisting with their physical training but in boosting their team spirit.

The Pride 5K Stride was a new one for the team, and with a Halloween theme attached to the race, the Gators won the prize for Best Group Costume, as a coach and a few of the gymnasts dressed as dominoes.

The Best Individual Costume went to co-owner Jennifer Skorski, who competed the 5K as Winnie the Pooh.

Along with their top honors in costumes, Giant Gymnastics won Best Overall Team, and several of the gymnasts won medals for the race itself.

Taking the top three spots for ages 7-11 were Ciara Peselli, Meagan Ward and Marguerite Bysshe. In the 12-14 year old group, Audrey Biss placed second; her mother, Pamela Biss, took second place as well for her own age group. Jennifer Skorski’s parents, Linda and Fred Packard, each took home second place for their age group as well.

With the competition season quickly approaching, the Gators will be in the gym training until warmer weather returns in the spring, and they can find their next 5K challenge to race.

For more information about the Garden Gator team, their classes and special events visit www.GiantGymnastics.com or call 973-579-9400.