Frank Speziale Photo

NORWICH – The Norwich Purple Tornado hosted their 11th annual REK 'Friends Forever' Track Invitational this past Friday, May 6.

The REK Invitational, in remembrance of the three Norwich Track and Field girls who lost their lives in a tragic drunk driving accident many years ago, began as it always has, with the moment of silence and the annual 100 meter remembrance walk.

Following the walk, the meet was underway in full force. About midway through the nights events, Norwich recognized all the seniors present for the evening, but especially recognized its own graduating seniors and asked that their parents accompany them to midfield.

After all the ceremonies were completed, Norwich proceeded to walk away as the winners on both the boys and girls side of the meet, with the Tornado boys earning 175-points and the girls earning 149-points.

Norwich also claimed both of the awards for Most Outstanding Athlete, with Zach Race taking the award on the boys side and senior Katelyn Shaver walking away with it on the girls side.

“They both exceeded what was expected of them. The REK always seems to have great competition for a small invitational. But the spirit that the Norwich kids have during the meet is unmatched,” said Norwich head coach Shaun Horan.