Augusta (WJBF) – Local runners are taking extra precautions after nursing student Laken Riley was killed in Athens.
Track and field students told NewsChannel 6 they prioritize safety and are aware of their surroundings.
“We can't prevent everything, that's the sad reality, but all we're trying to do is minimize the risk,” said Davidson High School Athletic Director Adam Kowalczyk. I am.
Laken Riley, a nursing student at Augusta University, was killed last week while jogging on the University of Georgia campus.
This tragedy has put a renewed emphasis on safety during exercise.
That includes the Davidson Fine Arts track and field team.
“The most important thing is communication. Letting someone know where you are at all times. Thanks to this technology, when you're running with your phone, people can track your location and send it to your phone. Now you can see if the information is there, which is very helpful.”
The girls I spoke to at Davidson said they love being on the team and try to run as much as possible, but safety comes first.
“I tell my mother that I'm going for a run. I'll also take my cell phone with me in case something happens. What time will I ask my sister to come jogging with me?” Harper said. A person who participates in track and field at school.
Other runners choose not to run alone.
Taylor Chilton, a track and field athlete at the magnet school, said: Yeah, you're all in pairs, at least I don't do anything alone. ”
The two girls usually go running when they are not practicing with their team.
Their biggest advice to others is…
“Always let someone know where you are. It's important. You want to have an electronic device on you that tells you where you are. At least five people know your location. I think.”
Runners also suggested running during the day.
