Scout Brendan Kelly stands by the Trout Brook map. Kelly is building a fitness station along the trail as his Eagle Scout project. Submitted p hoto
HOLDEN – Visitors to Trout Brook Recreation Area will soon have the option to utilize a three-part fitness station being installed along the trail by a local Scout for his Eagle Scout project.
Brendan Kelly, 17, hopes to complete the project sometime early to mid-October. The fitness station will feature apparatus for pullups, pushups, and dips, “bodyweight exercises that help with upper body strength.” “I was inspired because of the role that physical fitness has played in my life,” said the St. Mark’s School junior, who plays varsity basketball and is first boat for crew. “Being a two-sport athlete, it is important that I maintain my fitness constantly.” Kelly started the project in March after he “initially had some challenges with the location to build the project.” “I planned to build the station at the Holden Recreation Center near Dawson Elementary, but the town already had plans for construction,” he said. “Luckily, they gave me permission to build at Trout Brook, and it has been enjoyable procuring materials as well as figuring out how to build the structures.” He has been involved in the Boy Scouts organization since joining as a Tiger in first grade, and said he has enjoyed “the ability to get outdoors and be able to bond with my peers.” His father, John Kelly, said they are very proud of him and his efforts with the Eagle Scout project.
“It has been such a great experience as a parent to see him develop his sense of community and leadership while truly living the Scout Oath and Promise,” John Kelly said of his son.
When asked what the reaction to the project has been from those he knows as well as the greater community, Brendan Kelly said he has “had a large amount of support from those who have heard of it.” “It was important to me to do this because working out and fitness has become a source of joy for me, and it is important that I spread that joy along with education on the benefits of exercise while making it accessible for everyone from kids to adults.”
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