32nd Golden South Classic at Warden Field, the First Academy Orlando FL - June 7, 2008 Donna on the Side

presented by

by Donna Dye

the scene

Orlando, Florida, home of Disney World, Sea World, conventions and tourists is the setting for the Golden South Classic...

Like a lot of downtowns, Orlando has its business section and its renovation of historic Orlando.

After downtown, its off to the First Academy and Warden Stadium

The meet has a 32 year history and its own Hall of Fame. It's hosted by the First Academy at the Warden Stadium. Complete with a mondo surface, the Warden Stadium has a first class facility for a championship track and field meet. It's named after the Warden Family, who contributed the facility in support of track and field. In 2001, the meet was dedicated to the memory of Bert Warden, a Warden family son, brother, track and field star and enthusiast who died tragically in a water accident.

There's action on the track and under the bleachers. It's out of the sun and to the snack bar.

Athletes of the Meet

Girls: Charlene Lipsey -- Boys: Torrin Lawrence Charlene broke a 23-year old meet record with a 2:08.25 800. Torrin broke 23-year-old meet record with a 20.77 200.

Ryan Price, Adidas Rep presents the Athlete of the meet Award to Torrin Lawrence

Opening Ceremonies, Awards and Recognition

Dr. Jay Albright welcomes all to the Golden South Classic and introduces Veronica Campbell	Bill Buchalter announces service and recognition awards
Andy Warden welcomes 2008 Golden South Classic Hall of Famers, Crystal Cox, and Billy Close.
Crystal Cox career highlights include: 2004 Olympic 4x400m gold medalist; 2004 USA Indoor 200m champion; 6th in 200, 400 at 2003 USA Outdoors; 3rd in 200 and 2002 USA Indoors	Billy Close career highlights include: State of Florida's Class 3A Track & Field Long Jump Champion, 1983 State of Florida's Class 3A Track & Field Triple Jump Champion, 1983 Florida State University Track and Field Indoor School Record Holder, 1988-2001
Andy Warden presents award for long time service to track and field.	Marilyn Burdine receives an award for her positive attitude for the 20+ years of service to track & field.
Meet Director Ken Brauman accepts his award from Andy Warden

a celebrity on site:
Veronica Campbell meets, greets and signs autographs

Veronica poses with DeKalb County Express GA athletes