The day was grey, but spirits were bright. It was athletics day. Hoards of students flooded the buses, excitement buzzed in the air. On arriving at Mount Smart Stadium the stands began to overflow with eager participants. The air was full of talk: “Who will run the fastest?”; “Who will jump the highest?”; “Who will throw the furthest?”; and “Will the teachers beat the students in the relay?” The teachers congregated and began to assemble at their stations; the students filtered down to meet them. With little hesitation, the numerous events began.

This year events ran slightly differently, due to the expansion of the school, with pupils signing up prior to the day. Pupils were given the opportunity to sign up for up to three different activities – with our ever helpful prefects taking full responsibility for the organisation of this task.

With pupil sign-up complete, students knew exactly which events they were to attend and the time for each event. All they had to do now was arrive with a can-do attitude and a determination to get the best time or distance they possibly could. Students this year showed a particular interest in the long-distance events with enormous participation in the 1500 and 800 metres.  It was evident that most of them had taken the time to prepare, as they paced themselves well and completed the distance in very good times. The girls’ participation was outstanding, showing a particular increase in the sprinting events, Well done, girls!

This year the class with most points for participation and performance was 10CRL.  They will celebrate with a pizza lunch next Wednesday, 3 April.  Well done to those class members.

Perseverance and excellence were values on show all day. It was very encouraging to see students aiming to break school records.  Congratulations to the following on their record-breaking efforts.

2019 RECORDS

Another key value of our school is team-work, and this, too, was shown in excess. Although competition was fierce, pupils showed no end of encouragement and support for one another as individuals tried to deliver their very best performance. Athletics day can be a nerve-wracking day with students often taken out of their comfort zones.  It was therefore, fantastic to witness such amazing togetherness and support on display.

 2019 Athletics Individual Performance