The Tom Miller Hokum Karem is set in stone to take place on Saturday, Aug. 30, featuring the Penn Kingsmen Boys Cross Country team who comes in ranked No. 14, and the Penn Kingsmen Girls Cross Country team, who come in ranked No. 7 in the state.
This race will be new to the Penn Boys & Girls Cross Country teams. seeing as they haven’t raced a unique relay-style race that emphasizes teamwork and camaraderie such as this one in many years. This event serves as a tribute to Coach Tom Miller, who just concluded his remarkable coaching career with a State Finals appearance with the Kingsmen, marking the end of 29 years in cross country and 39 years in track.
- BOYS MIDDLE SCHOOL RACE: 8:30 a.m. EDT
- GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL RACE: 9:00 a.m. EDT
- BOYS HIGH SCHOOL RACE: 9:45 a.m. EDT
- GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL RACE: 10:40 a.m. EDT
As spectators prepare to support and cheer on their teams, it’s important to note that there will be NO parking at Elm Road Elementary School, where the relay will take place. All attendees will be shuttled from Grissom Middle School (13881 Kern Road, Mishawaka, Ind.). Parents should be informed of this arrangement and plan to arrive early, as there will be a $4 fee for each car entering Grissom via its two entrances.
Coach Miller’s legacy is evident in his impressive record, including 53 boys’ and 39 girls’ Cross Country Championships, along with numerous trips to the IHSAA Cross Country State Finals . His commitment to fostering a positive environment and encouraging continuous improvement inspired many amongst the program. Through precise planning, long hours, and hard work Miller has inspired many athletes both on and off the course, as he served as a Weights and Physical Education Coach for Penn on top of it all. As he enters retirement, the Hokum Karem serves to celebrate his achievements but also looks to showcase the camaraderie and teamwork he has instilled in his runners and students. This event promises to be a memorable one, honoring Coach Miller’s impact on the Penn Cross Country program and creating lasting memories for all participants and spectators. The Penn teams who now come into this undefeated, look to defend their home course and win it all in honor of their former coach.
