Pancakes and Perseverance: Mother Son Breakfast

Excited faces filled the Ellerslie Event Centre over two mornings as the Boys' School Parents and Friends hosted their annual Mother Son breakfast. The anticipation was palpable as boys and their mothers arrived, eager for a delicious breakfast and some quality time together. With Mother's Day that coming Sunday, each boy received a rose for their mother upon entry, a symbol of appreciation for all that their mothers do.

Once everyone was seated, Principal of the Boys’ School Mr Peter Cassie welcomed all guests and breakfast service followed swiftly. Mouthwatering aromas filled the air as mothers were served a delicious eggs benedict, while the boys indulged in syrupy pancakes and crispy bacon. As they savoured their meals, the boys seized the opportunity to hang out with their friends, while mothers connected with each other, exchanging stories and laughter.

As the mothers and sons finished off their breakfast, special guests Ethan Stilwell, Maddie Ballard, and Coen Anderson from Saint Kentigern College took the stage. These remarkable athletes had recently achieved an inspiring victory in the Coast to Coast race and shared their stories. The audience listened in awe as Chaplain Rev. Reuben Hardie interviewed the trio, showcasing their sheer determination, team spirit, and incredible perseverance in conquering the gruelling 243-kilometre multisport event.

Rev. Hardie, an accomplished athlete himself, also participated in the team event of the Coast to Coast, adding a level of connection to his interview and increasing admiration among the audience. Following the Q&A session, the boys were invited to showcase their own athleticism and teamwork. Paired up with their mothers, they participated in a hilarious multisport transition race, donning backpacks filled with sports gear and even taking a bite of a granola bar to finish the race.

Laughter filled the room as two mother-son duos raced against each other, entertaining all who watched. The event continued with spot prizes generously donated by local businesses, adding an element of surprise to the fortunate boys who won gifts for their mothers. Mr Cassie jokingly suggested the boys who had won spot prizes should save them for Mother's Day, though they mightn’t get away with it.

As the event drew to a close, the boys left with full bellies, inspired by the triumphant story of the Coast to Coast. The Mother Son breakfast was a truly memorable experience, celebrating the special bond between mothers and sons and leaving everyone eagerly looking forward to future events that bring the community together.