On Thursday 30th January Clackclose school hosted the Downham Market cluster cross country competition.
With 13 schools attending bringing along up to 32 children each it was a big event that showcased the running talent within the cluster. This is the third year that Clackclose has had the pleasure of hosting the event and the school is proud of their school grounds which are ideal for such an occasion.
Eight races took place which were not only watched by staff and pupils from the various schools but also by many parents and friends who had turned up to cheer their children on.
Frances Rayner, who is a parent at the school and has helped with a running club there for several years, said ‘though very cold the atmosphere was electric. Once every race was underway the noise levels rose dramatically and everywhere you looked there were children and adults jumping up and down. This was a very proud occasion for everyone involved and it was great to see the enthusiasm that everyone had not only for their own children but for everyone taking part.’
Success was celebrated across the 13 schools but the host school had an absolutely fantastic morning. ‘We had been trying to practice for the two weeks prior to the event but the snow had made things very difficult.’ Frances said. ‘ We finally got out on the Monday and Tuesday lunch times the week of the competition and as always our children at Clackclose let their enthusiasm take over and did not let the lack of practice dampen their confidence’.
Year 3 girls race: Clackclose took the top three positions – Olivia Comley 3rd, Pesa Sek 2nd and Mila Varga 1st. Year 3 boys race saw Harry Sharpe in 2nd place and Harvey Pepper in 1st. Olatunde O’Brien Dele took 3rd place in the year 5 boys race and Jessie Lamb 1st place in year 6 boys race. All of these children will go on to run in the West Norfolk Schools Cross Country competition at Lynn Sport Kings Lynn.
‘These results are fantastic but it was the great results of the rest of the Clackclose boys and girls team that gave enough points for both the girls and boys team to win.’ Frances went on to say. ‘this is a very proud moment for the school and a first in its history for a double win like this. It really is a testament to the talented children that we have. They work hard and want to succeed and were so proud of their achievements.’
Rebecca Westall Deputy Head said: ‘We were very proud of all of the children who ran in the Cross Country races and their determination and dedication shone through. All children who took part are dedicated runners who practice at least weekly. We wanted to award the 1st place winners with a gift to help them nurture their talent and to keep running. New running shoes seemed the obvious choice. Well done to all!’
