Pond runners head to Jr. Olympics

The Pond Running Club, a nonprofit organization under the guidance and coaching of Humberto Vargas, has been fundraising toward another trip for runners to compete in the Junior Olympics.

Vargas, the director of transportation and the founder/volunteer coach of the running club, is currently trying to raise enough money to take 11 of his qualifying runners to the Junior Olympics in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Nicholas Vargas will be competing in the category for ages 8 and under.

Competing in the girls 9-10 age division is Julissa Vargas. Tanya Vargas is competing in the 11-12 division and both Miranda Cortez and Ivy Almanza are competing in the 13-14 category.

Competing in the boys 9-10 category are Emmanuel Bustamante, Adrian Gonsalez and Jose Diaz Diaz, while Marcus Segura and Jesus Diaz Diaz are both competing in the 11-12 division. Aaron Segura will compete in the 13-14 category.

"The kids have been training all year long for this," Vargas said. "They have proven they are ready to compete at this level of competition."

Vargas also mentioned that several kids are ranked in the top 20 nationally. Aaron Segura took 2nd in the Kern County Finals and Julissa Vargas got 3rd in the Kern County Finals.

"All donations to the Pond Running Club are tax deductible," Coach Vargas said. "We need your help to make this happen for the young athletes."

Donation checks can be made out to the Pond Running Club and mailed to 30705 Pond Road, McFarland 93250.