For years, Palo Alto families have come to run, jump, throw, cheer, and grow together. From weekly team cheers to traditions like the Half-Lapper, children become part of something larger than a class. They learn that effort matters, teammates matter, and joy belongs at every stage of growth.
Founded by Coach Joy Upshaw — world champion, USATF Hall of Fame athlete, and beloved Bay Area coach.
Structure that feels like spontaneity. Every class follows the same warm rhythm so kids know what to expect — and adults can see exactly how the joy is built.
1
Welcome
Name connection, eye contact, every kid seen.
2
Warm-up
Silly, sweaty, smiling — bodies wake up.
3
Event of the Day
Running, jumping, throwing, or a relay.
4
Joy Huddle
Gratitude, recognition: "You're awesome!"
5
Send-off
A patch tied to the week's theme, a proud smile, and a reason to come back.
Why families trust us
35+ years of joy on Bay Area tracks
Coach Joy Upshaw is a World Masters Champion, a USATF Hall of Fame athlete, and an elite coach who has trained Olympians, college standouts, and thousands of Bay Area kids who left the track standing a little taller.
Joy, kindness, belonging, and confidence are the outcomes of Jackrabbits track and field.
No tryouts. No pressure. Just movement, encouragement, and joy.
Coach intro
Meet your Palo Alto head coach
A short hello from the local head coach — the trust signal a bio can’t deliver.
Parent voices
A Palo Alto family, in their own words.
Parent testimonial
Raquel F., Jaden's Mom
2x Jackrabbit Family (8/2026)
The Joy Continuum
Find your child's age group
🐰Littles(ages 3.5–5)
Coordination, confidence, and play-based movement.
Littles (3.5–5) are all about movement, comfort, and belonging. Middles (6–8) begin gentle technique while building confidence and coordination. Leaders (9–13) develop stronger skills, focus, and leadership. When in doubt, choose by age.
Yay! Go Jackrabbits!
Ready to join the Jackrabbits?
Come run, jump, laugh, learn, and leave feeling proud. We can't wait to welcome your family.
