It’s hard to imagine the energy level in camp could surpass what we’ve experienced all summer, but our boys have taken it to a whole new level. Olympics are in full swing across all age groups, and our campers are primed, focused, and ready to give their best.
This year, for the first time, Juniors and Seniors are competing together in select landmark Olympic events. Earlier today, this began with a combined track meet. Imagine being an 11- or 12-year-old boy, cheered on during a relay or sprint by the older boys you’ve looked up to all summer— your idols, the ones you aspire to emulate. Picture our oldest boys competing on a larger stage with a bigger audience: younger campers cheering them on as they strive to win points for their team. In this moment, they were not just big and little brothers sharing meals at a cookout or sitting around a campfire. They were teammates, wearing the same green or grey colors, fighting side by side.
Two standout events in this morning’s track meet were the shuttle relay and tug-of-war. In the shuttle relay, every team member ran a 50-yard dash across the field, passing the baton to a teammate running in the opposite direction. The final runner for each team was an Okee camper, carrying a green or grey flag that he needed to cross the finish line and secure victory. It ended in a photo finish, and although the boys were exhausted after a long morning of competition, both teams embraced, celebrating a truly special event.
The tug-of-war demanded brute strength and strategy. Campers gave careful thought to their position on the rope and quickly realized the importance of that first explosive tug at the whistle.
Meanwhile, in Warrior Camp, our youngest boys enjoyed a full day of landsport and skill competition. Teams were divided by age group, pairing boys of comparable ability to ensure a fun, fair, and balanced experience. In Warrior Camp, points are awarded not just for winning, but also for effort and sportsmanship. Sometimes, a team that loses a game might actually score higher due to outstanding sportsmanship.
The competition extended into the evening with the Warrior three-point contest— an all-star event showcasing our youngest campers’ shooting skills. Selected Warriors took turns from behind the arc, with teammates cheering them on. Though not part of the Olympics, the contest brought just as much excitement and pride, capping the day with celebration and sportsmanship.
As for our Seniors, they headed to the Playhouse for Trivia Bowl, setting aside athletic rivalry to test their minds and teamwork in a fun, light-hearted environment.
When Taps echoed across the campus, there was a shared calmness and a sense of fulfillment. Our boys had given their all and were already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.
