When covering a track and field meet I always like to hop in the holding area where athletes check in and await their turn to race. It's especially fun when the area is filled with young kids.  Chaos, loud chattering, rambunctiousness and lively excitement reign. The race officials who are in charge have a hard job at that!

Here's a young boy (number 269) listening attentively to the official.

But it didn't last for long!

More here: http://marleenvandenneste.smugmug.com/XCTF/Highlights-2015/47323644_5D84Sh

Related blog post about my little track star:  www.marleenvandenneste.com/blog/my-favorite-little-athlete