Brooke Priory U8/9/10/11 Invitational Cross Country (A)

Match Report

The Brooke Priory Cross Country event was our second cross country competition of the week, with St Hugh’s fielding over forty pupils across the respective age-group teams in what was another large and highly competitive field. Teams included the hosts Brooke Priory, Stamford. Witham Hall, Ranby, Ratcliffe College, Grantham Prep and Copthill. 

On another warm, albeit windy, day, our runners tackled an out-and-back course, with the distance increasing progressively with each age group. There was plenty of determination on display as our pupils challenged themselves against strong competition and pushed their limits from start to finish.

We were incredibly proud of the fantastic support from the St Hugh’s community. Our supporters lined the finish area, cheering every single one of our runners as they appeared in their distinctive Centenary Games tops. Their encouragement created a wonderful atmosphere and undoubtedly helped our pupils find that extra reserve of energy when they needed it most.

There were some outstanding individual performances, including Hollie F, who secured an excellent 3rd-place medal, and Zachary A, who narrowly missed out on the podium with an impressive 4th-place finish. These were complemented by two further top-ten finishes, demonstrating the strength and depth of our teams. This included Phillipa in 6th and Anayra in 7th (U8 Girls). Also finishing in the top 20 within their field were as follows - 

U8
Arthur H - 15th 

U9
Georgia - 11th
Tilly - 16th

U10
Ottilie - 17th
Lucy - 18th
George - 17th

U11
Vinny - 11th
Charles - 12th
Abi - 15th
Cecily - 18th

Based on our top 4 counters per team, we were delighted to achieve 3rd Place for both our U8 Boys and U11 Girls. 

However, while the results were certainly worth celebrating, perhaps the most memorable performances came from those pupils experiencing their first ever cross country event. Some approached the start line with understandable hesitation, but dug deep, stepped outside their comfort zones and battled their way to the finish. To see the joy, sense of accomplishment and, perhaps, a little relief on their faces as they crossed the line was incredibly rewarding.

These moments are a wonderful reminder of the role sport plays far beyond competition and results. Learning to face uncertainty, overcome nerves, persevere when something feels difficult and discover that you are capable of more than you first thought are lessons that will serve our pupils in all aspects of life beyond school.

Just as importantly, the way our pupils supported and encouraged one another throughout the event was a wonderful testament to the warmth of the St Hugh’s community. Whether celebrating a podium finish or encouraging a teammate through the final metres, our pupils demonstrated the camaraderie, resilience and sportsmanship that we are so proud to see in our school teams.

A huge well done to every St Hugh’s runner who represented the school with such enthusiasm, determination and pride. You should all be incredibly proud of your efforts.