Not for the first time, the Senior School provided a picturesque setting for the Annual Primary Cross Country. Anticipation was high as the trained-up athletes descended upon the lightning fast course. Every vantage point was a winning view as the brilliantly constructed course allowed all to get a sense of the cat-and-mouse game which is Cross Country running.

After a brief introduction and explanation of the course, it was time to get down to action. Newly appointed ‘bunny’ Mr Richard Baker set himself the challenge of not being overtaken by a talented runner from Coates in the opening bout, however this was not as easy as it first looked.

The Junior race started us off and 2km of high energy, precise and fleet-footed running ensued. Young Bililign Robertson had his sights on Mr Baker and his first lap broke the hearts of all the other competitors as he scorched the immaculate pitch with some breathtaking distance running. Although he slowed in the second lap, his lead never looked in danger and he took out the junior event for the second year running. Two James’ were hot on his heels though, with James Whiteing showing the benefit of some intense training as he powered to second place, with James McGregor showcasing a beautiful running style in finishing third.

In the chaos of a packed finish it is always hard to see where the 8 and 9 year olds finish amongst the 10 years, making for an exciting wait at the conclusion of the carnival for final placings. This year it was Nicholas Venetoulis taking out the 9 years event, showing that he is extremely multi-talented after his swimming exploits, and showing that the Biathlon competitors should watch out come November. Matthew Torrible and Ryoma Suzuki were second and third respectively, proving that the future of distance running at Newington looks very bright for years to come.

The youngest competitors on the day the 8 year olds were next to cross the line, with young Stirling Nicholas finishing a fantastic 24th overall in the event, but first across the line for the 8 year olds. Cameron Davey-Webb showed his ability in both Swimming and Running in finishing second, and Will Nicholas was very closely behind in third.

In the Senior race it was clear from the outset that it was a race in two, with Grayson Richardson taking the early lead with a powerful start before succumbing to the relentless speed and endurance of Oscar Moody who led almost from start to finish. Third in this event was Rhett Schlaphoff who continues to impress at all athletic events.

The 11 years were not far behind and after a very close finish Fletcher Jakes was awarded first place. Gaelen Dorigo also finished with a rush and although Fletcher was the official winner of the event, the closeness meant that he and Gaelen shared the honours of age champion in a great show of sportsmanship. Second and third place went to Samuel Eagleton and Flynn Leung-Nicholson in an 11 years race that will be talked about for years to come.

So after all the heroics, sore legs, aching lungs and smiling faces, there had to be a winner of the day. And despite the results proving too difficult to announce on the day due to the unprecedented numbers in the championship races this year, we had a winner………and the result was the closest in living memory with the bitter rivals Rydal and Kingswood almost sharing the spoils. But there can be only one winner, and this year it was RYDAL, who finished ahead of Kingswood on an adjusted score by 0.01 of a point. First home for the Wyvern houses was Williams, who were only a few points away from the top two.

Another brilliant day, some more spectacular moments, close finishes and satisfied boys and parents! And at the end of it all we have four teams that are going to give the IPSHA Cross Country a real shake come the 5th April…

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