Hope Valley battle the region’s elite on debut in athletics tournament

The Key Stage 3 students were representing the college for the first time at regional level, having beaten off stiff local competition to secure their place in the finals.

Both the junior boys and junior girls’ teams produced strong performances to achieve sixth and seventh place respectively.

Head of PE Rob Moxon said: “The performances the students produced fully justified our place in the finals and they can be exceptionally proud of themselves for competing at such a high level.”

Students participated in a range of track and field events including 100m, 200m, 800m and 1,500m distance runs, the javelin, high jump, long jump and discus.

The junior girls’ team amassed a total of 243 points, just 30 points behind first place, while the boys accumulated an impressive 260 points.

Mr Moxon said: “Both teams put in a lot of effort and dedication not only on the day but also in preparation for the event with some demanding training sessions.”

Principal Bernie Hunter added: “I would like to congratulate the athletics team on their achievements.

“As a college we are exceptionally proud of what they accomplished in our first-ever appearance at the ESSA regional finals.

“This is a testament to the time and expertise of Mr Moxon and his team who have worked exceptionally hard with the students to put them in a position to compete with the region’s elite athletes.”