Cross Country Round 2
The second round of the National Schools Cross Country took place at a muddy Blundells on Thursday as the athletes from East Devon joined the competition.
First off the line was Ruthie who ran a super race, pacing herself far better than in Round 1 as she battled through the mud. A respectable 20th position against a field of strong runners from Exmouth and Colyton. As the track started to cut up Noah sped from the line and held on to the coat tails of the leaders as he raced in to a qualification spot in 12th. Four girls had qualified for the Inter-girls event and Esmae, Kate, Willow and Rosie started off shoulder to shoulder. The course at this level was a longer 3.9km to accommodate the Senior runners and soon the pack thinned. Willow kept Esmae company before a dramatic kick on the last lap saw her catch and overtake Kate. Rosie finished well, but like the others crossed the line outside of qualification. Last on the track was the Inter and Senior boys where our sole representative was Jasper. With some top regional runners in the line up Jasper ran brilliantly into 3rd position. Hand shakes all round and hugs for friends from other schools as this competitive event brough together schools and students from across the area. Very well done to all that ran and especially to those that qualified for the next round.