Weeks of practice, organising teams and preparing for the conditions all “boiled” down to one day, which just happened to be the hottest day of the year! The gazebos were up, the PTA fully stocked with refreshments and the students covered in sun cream!

We moved the 600m to the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day. The races were closely contested overall, but none more so the Year 9 boys, which came down to a sprint finish and all competitors crossing within 7 seconds. Prior to this the Prep school completed the 1000m speed walk on the back field, which was closely contested.

Immediately after the 600m we undertook the field events. The students were all wearing new house bibs, so the field was awash with colour. There were lots of closely contested events and some real standout performances: Georgie Chamberlin and Jola Abimbola in triple jump, Zuhol Haroon and George Clark in shot putt and Finlay Moxom in javelin.

The students left for lunch and returned for the track events at 1pm. Despite the searing temperatures the students performed with determination and in many cases excellent technique. There were some excellent races throughout the afternoon. Alex Dunning pipped Dre Paschalis to the line in the 100m and there was a very close battle between Katie Deeprose and Emilia Mucha in the same event. The relays completed the track events.

We found comfort in the shade the bowling alley provided, but great anticipation and excitement for the tug of war. There were some very close bouts, with entire houses working against each other which was a fantastic thing to see. The parents finished the day with a tremendous battle which was a treat for the students.
Thank you to everyone who helped run events, supervised students, took photos, set up, provided refreshments and support throughout the day. The atmosphere was great and enjoyed by all. The overall results were as follows.

1st – Eagle – 777
2nd – Swift – 734
3rd – Drake – 684