Did you know that the School of Mines has a long history of
hosting track meets? The RMAC track meet
to be held this weekend is not the first time the institution has hosted such
an event. Nearly a century ago, the School of Mines established the annual Black
Hills Track and Field Meet. The first such event was held in 1921.
The School of Mines invited all high schools throughout the
West River area to send their best athletes to the event organized by the
Student Association. Nearly two dozen separate contests were held, winners were
awarded medals and trophy cups. School of Mines students entertained their
guest with novelty events throughout the contest.
The participants were treated to several special events
including entertainment at the Elks Theatre the evening before the meet and
meals throughout the event. Following the successful athletic events, a dance
was held downtown.
The meet was so successful it became an annual competition,
eventually moving to a larger facility at the nearby county fairgrounds. These pictures are from 1924 & 1927 meets held at the fairgrounds.
Many more track and field pictures can be found at the Digital Library of South Dakota.
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