On Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March, twenty-nine pupils in Years 3-9 visited Bath University to compete in the Pentathlon GB National Schools’ Biathlon.
The pupils had previously qualified for the event back in November and were looking forward to competing against all of the best swimmers and runners in the country.
The girls’ event was held on Saturday and everyone swam and ran superbly.
The boys were equally impressive in their event on Sunday with everyone giving their all and holding their own against other incredible athletes.
Whilst this event is designed as an introduction to the sport, times were converted to points and all athletes were given a national ranking. The standout performances of the weekend came from Rafi W and Marilyn M.
Rafi continues to impress in both swimming and running and whilst his run didn’t quite hit his personal best, he walked away with a third place finish and another medal to add to his burgeoning trophy cabinet.
Marilyn swam well and then ran a time so fast that the organisers’ scoring system had to be amended to award her the correct points. Her final tally was the highest by an U10 competitor in the field and so she was crowned National Champion, which is an exceptional feat and hopefully the continuation of a sustained and successful life-long athletics journey.
Christ Stone, Director of Sport at Cranleigh Prep, said: “For the first year that we have really prioritised a combination event, the performances from all of our athletes were simply sensational. I am completely in awe of the ability of Cranleigh pupils and to have a national champion within the school community is a source of immense pride.”
