Lions make noise at Atlantics
Several members of the local club reach the podium in Stellarton
The importance of the Truro Lions and their contribution to Athletics Nova Scotia (ANS) can’t be overstated.
During a summer of remarkable track and field performances right across the province, Truro athletes are standing out among the best.
“They’re a small group, small but mighty,” said ANS executive director Anitra Stevens. “They’ve gone from a very small group of just throwers to now having athletes in all sorts of events.”
“For a small club with small numbers, compared to other clubs from the city and Fredericton, they’ve come a long way.”
The Lions turned in a secondplace finish at the recent 28-team Atlantic track and field championships in Stellarton, behind only the Pictou County Athletics Club.
Sprinter Braden Gray, a firstyear Lion, says he enjoys being able to compete at a higher level. The Atlantic competition marked the first time he’s raced against others from outside Nova Scotia.
“People who do summer (athletics) are really serious about it and I just seem to get more experience and exposure,” said Gray, who will represent the province at Legion nationals next month in Brandon, Man.
“My next step is to compete against people from all over Canada so it’s just expanding and it’s getting even better.”
Nathan Burris has been involved with the Lions for nine years as an athlete and a coach. He attributes the team’s success to hard work and dedication, but also says being loose and enjoying the moment is equally important.
“It’s pretty relaxed and we try not to test each other,” he said during a recent practice. “I’m still friends with the people I went through it with and hopefully these guys stay friends forever.”