This year’s cross country was held in perfect conditions at the traditional Sponge Bay course. We are lucky to have access to this land, with a true steeplechase course that challenges all runners, so thanks to Peter Nolan for his ongoing support. The cool, calm weather and perfect under-foot conditions saw the records in all three age groups broken. Amazing considering these records have stood since the mid-1990s.
The intermediate (U16) race was first, runners completing two “small laps” and covering 3.4km. Participation was good with just under 200 runners taking part. Cory Taylor led from start to finish, carving 14 seconds off the school record set by Glen Hofman in 1995, finishing in 14m 22s.
The juniors (U14) raced next, completing one “big lap”, a distance of 2.9km. For the Year 9s it was their first chance to test themselves on the school course and again participation was excellent (190 runners). Jules Craft won comfortably with a very impressive run, his time of 12m 14s beat the school record held by Andrew Bott since 1995 by 32 seconds! Tunny Samuel who finished second was also impressive, beating the old record by six seconds.
The senior (+16) race finished the day. They run one “big lap” and one “small lap”, a total distance of 4.6km. The level of senior participation was much better than last year, so well done to the 100 boys who fronted this year. Alex Hyland ran very strongly to complete an amazing day of record breaking performances, his time of 18m 24s was an incredible 1m 09s faster than Glen Hofman’s 1997 record!