Cross Country

Malcolm Jeffrey reflects on a season where cross country fixtures did not happen but the opportunity for training increased.

The cross country season was largely a wash out due to COVID, but that did not stop the boys and girls (and staff) from achieving their usual enthusiastic and challenging goals. Fitness was the order of the day and from Mr Hambleton’s relays (both mentally and physically demanding) to the amazing runs round Bruton, every member of the squad improved their technique and their stamina. No runner was lacking in individual effort, and as a group we became stronger, fitter and tougher. But we enjoyed every second!

We were inspired by our captains of cross country, Josh Blunden and Ella Docherty. They had their opportunity to lead the teams at away fixtures taken from them, but they led well here at King's. They were always enthusiastic and always ready to challenge themselves, as well as others. The staff were indefatigable and we would all like to thank Mr Hambleton, Mr Mitra, Mrs Simper and Mr Parks for their continued and unwavering support.

The crowning glory for the term was being able to run the inter-house cross country which was both entertaining and competitive. It is the first year of trialling “relays” and proved to be most successful, with some incredible individual efforts.

The results were as follows: 1st Place Girls’ House - Priory 1st Place Boys’ House - Lyon

The individual results of the top three runners in the different categories were as follows:

Senior Girls: 1) Anya Evans 10:29 2) Marcia Kennard 10:53 3) Lulu McDade 11:13

Senior Boys: 1) Jonathan Read 09:07 2) Archie Coulsey-Belgeonne 09:33 3) Freddie Goggs 09:44

Junior Girls: 1) Anouska Loveridge 10:55 2) Coralie Smith 11:16 3) Skyla Cannon 11:23 3) Georgia McDade 11:23

Junior Boys: 1) Max Palmer 9:17 2) Charlie Galpin 9:36 3) Ben Longman 9:55 3) Will Hawkins 9:55

Thank you for everyone who helped out and supported the event. We are all looking forward to next year when we will be able to travel and compete again.

Sophie Gould & Anya Evans

Oliver Stuart

Max Palmer

Lily Innes