School’s athletics success

30 pupils were selected to represent Mid-Sussex and further 11 were then selected to represent Sussex a range of athletics disciplines. The senior boys competed in the Sevenoaks Meet back in May and came first in the intermediate section, beating Judd, Tonbridge, Brighton College and Hampton.

At the English Schools (ESAA) Track and Field Cup, the junior girls, intermediate girls and junior boys’ squads all reached the regional round - a fantastic achievement to get all teams through to the second round. The intermediate boys competed in the regional round and scored a total of 536 points.

They went on to compete at Bedford in the finals. At the halfway stage (after the field events) CH were in 3rd place, 10pts off of the leaders. After the track events, despite some gritty performances, CH finished fifth overall with 528 pts, only 10pts away from second place.

David Messenger, Director of Sport said: “This is the third year running that a CH team has reached the ESAA Track and Field Finals, an indication that CH is now a real force in Schools athletics.”

Abbey Henry, Head of Athletics added: “The intermediate boys should be commended on their commitment to training this season and their outstanding performances on the track and field, their attitude and focus was outstanding.

“The athletics at CH this term has been tremendous. The athletes have been training hard in all aspects and have shown both commitment and dedication which has paid off. Well done to all of our competitors.”

Special mentions to:

Solomon Deller who has recently become the U17 Sussex County Champion for long Jump.

Joshua Persad who is the U15 200m and 100m Sussex county Champion.

Elliot Bayley who is currently the U15 Sussex and Surrey champion for javelin and is ranked as one of the top 10 throwers in the UK.

Shekinah George-Lawal, Joshua Persad and Elliot Bailey also qualified to compete at the Track and Field Championships in Birmingham, an outstanding achievement. Elliot Bayley was placed 6th, achieving a new personal best in the Javelin (44.86m).

Report and pictures contributed by Christ’s Hospital.