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Tyler Cortez, 5, and Cory Cassinger, 6, discuss points at the GCIO 1st Annual Drug Free Youth Challenge.

GORE, OKLAHOMA - More than 250 parents, teachers and students attended a drug awareness day in Gore. The Gore Community Improvement Organization (GCIO) held its first Drug Free Youth Challenge at the Steve Owens Complex in Gore.

More than 100 kids from 1st through 6th grade competed in the 50-meter dash, tug-a-war, balloon toss, 100 yard relay, softball and football throws and various activities, before eating lunch with parents and teachers.

Asked about the activities of the day, Tyler Cortez, first-grader at Gore Elementary, said, "I did everything and won 4 ribbons."

"Its nice to see the kids out here having a good time", said Rodney Deerinwater, vice-chair of GCIO. "We hope to have more activities like this for the community. GCIO would like to thank the businesses around the Gore community and the Cherokee Nation Office of the Deputy Chief for making the Youth Challenge a success."