Aspire teens win outdoor challenge

DOWNEY - Six teams of four middle school students and one adult from Aspire - the Downey Unified School District's after-school program - participated in the CORE Teen Adventure Challenge last Saturday at Bonelli Regional Park in San Dimas.One Aspire team took first place in the middle school bracket, with another receiving an award for teamwork. Winners received cash prizes along with money to donate to a charity of their choice. The first place team from Griffiths Middle School include Gabrielle Rivero, Cameron Santiago, Nicolas Serrano and staff member David Damiani. The team received engraved trophies and $200 prize money. A team from West Middle School won the teamwork award. That team consisted of Bernardo Carillo, Jorge Valderrama, Carlos Sandoval, Solomon Hailu and staff member Lizette Dolmos. They received an engraved plaque and tickets to an L.A. Galaxy soccer game, where they will be invited down on the field. The CORE challenge pits teams through a wilderness course, brain puzzles, rock climbing, mountain biking and kayaking challenges. More than 500 kids participated. The event is intended to promote active and healthy lifestyles and expose children to local parks.

********** Published: April 19, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 01