The British Columbia Ministry of Education and Child Care has distanced itself from the Richmond School District's controversial changes to elementary school track meets, stating that these decisions are made at the district level and not mandated by provincial guidelines. The ministry clarified that track meets are extracurricular activities and do not fall under the province's physical and health education curriculum. The Richmond School District had previously claimed that the removal of awards and the introduction of gender-neutral competition aligned with provincial standards, but the ministry emphasized there is no requirement for such changes. The alterations have sparked significant backlash, with some students, including a Grade 7 boy and his brother, planning to boycott the meet due to the elimination of awards. Local officials, including Richmond city councillor and Olympian Alexa Loo, have raised concerns over the impact on young athletes, particularly girls seeking competitive opportunities. The district defends its changes as a shift toward emphasizing participation and personal achievement, although critics argue this undermines competitive spirit. An online petition opposing the changes has garnered over 2,000 signatures, reflecting widespread discontent. The Richmond district track meet is set for May 20.