It was beautiful conditions out at Halswell Quarry last month for the Y9-13 Cross Country.

We’d lost our gazebo well before the first race had got underway, the limited shelter available causing havoc for Miss Mackechnie and Mr Smith on the results table.

The Y9 and 10s got things under way, the boys starting proceedings while the girls followed closely behind. The 3km course was proving rather difficult, wind gusts and water obstacles a real treat for the dedicated runners. After an outstanding job marshalling the form teachers into position around the course, Mr Liebert stripped down to his racing gear (no sign of the lycra spotted earlier while biking to school), and gave the pupils a run for their money.

As the juniors completed their first lap, the Y11-13s were set free around their two lap, 4km course. The Y9 and 10 boys began to roll through the finish line, Y9 Tristan Campbell leading the way followed closely by Y10 Samuel Jones. In the girls race, Y10 Amy Jorgensen headed the pack with Gabby Swan the first Y9 home.

With the seniors well spread out across the course, and most of the juniors at the finish line, the heavens opened and the metservice employee who predicted 1.7mls of rain at 2pm is under review. Luke Mitchell pushed through the tough conditions to grab the Senior Boys title, while Marisa van der Meer showed her football fitness levels are high taking out the Senior Girls race.

Thanks to all the staff who supported the event, a great new venue and we look forward to our top runners competing at the Canterbury SS Cross Country Champs in just under two weeks.

Attached are the results for each age group, and the preliminary house placings. These may change once the full results are calculated.