Four of the Middle Distance Squad’s younger U11/U13 athletes who attend Spratton Hall preparatory School in Spratton were in action at the 25th annual National Preparatory School Cross Country Championships hosted by Malvern College, and all secured top 50 positions in races of over 300 athletes.
The race held in perfect cross country conditions across the Malvern College campus and the hilly Wells Common attract over 1,000 pupils from more than 80 schools and is the climax of cross country season for Spratton Hall.
U11’s Ernie Jackson enjoyed the best result for the boys with a gutsy run over the challenging 2.5km course to finish in a magnificent 15th place in 10:34, taking places all the way to the line with an impressive sprint finish. Ollie Barbosa also enjoyed a terrific race to finish in 48th place in 11:06 to help Spratton Hall secure a fine 4th place in the team event.
Ernie Jackson magnificent run for 15th place (left) and Ollie Barbosa in action
For the girls Harriett Round back competing after a lengthy period off with injury showed she is getting back to good shape with an excellent run to finish in 20th place over the 2km course in 8:54, after a cautious start Harriett finished powerfully taking places right to the line. Just behind was Lauren Hewitt who also enjoyed a fine race to finish in 34th place in 9:07, again helping Spratton Hall to a highly credible top 5 team position.
Harriett Round centre picture, excellent run for 20th place
The Harriers have forged close links over many years with the school in a collaborative arrangement which has helped produce some outstanding athletes over the years, including Josh Cara who won the NPS Championship in 2010.
Currently 5 athletes from the school train & compete for the Harriers.