A very special moment and show of sportsmanship occurred at a track meet pitting rivals Sturgis and Three Rivers recently.

The moment, which was captured by Sturgis Journal sports reporter Corky Emrick shows Three Rivers athlete Corrina Tompkins passing rival Sturgis High School runners to claim victory in the 100 meter dash. From the Journal story,

For the Lady Wildcats, Corrina Tompkins won her heat at :30.94.
“Seeing the smile on her (Corrina) face as she is running down the track to capture the win was priceless. Corrina is always happy and loves running the 100-meter dash regardless if she finished first or last,” three Rivers coach James Phillips said. “Tonight she appeared to be just ecstatic after winning the 100.
“Moments like that are what makes the opportunity to coach any sport so great,” Phillips added. “Many thanks to all my athletes, Sturgis’ athletes and coach (Emerson) Green from Sturgis for helping to ensure that Corrina notices how much she means to our team and school.”

Sturgis High School shared the moment on their Facebook page as well, despite the loss in the heat,

Sturgis boys won last night's track meet against Three Rivers, but the Girls help make a lasting memory for Three Rivers' Corinna Tompkins. Yet another example of how compassionate our SPS students are.....great job being leaders that other kids can look up to!

More From Kalamazoo's Country