More than 700 young runners gathered at Littlegarth School in Nayland, Colchester, for the Independent Schools Association (ISA) National Cross Country Qualifier, with winners on the culminating day securing a prestigious finals spot.
Hosted by Littlegarth for the second year running, the three-day event, held on 11 – 13 February, was sponsored by Fisher Jones Greenwood (FJG), a leading East of England law firm and member of Lawfront, which prides itself on developing strong community relations.
The event, a standout fixture in the Essex schools’ sporting calendar, attracted more than 800 spectators, comprising families, pupils, headteachers, PE staff and support teams. It began with Littlegarth’s inter-house cross country, a much-anticipated highlight that brought the school community together in celebration of sport and teamwork. On day two, local state primary schools were welcomed to run the course, giving young athletes the opportunity to experience competitive racing alongside the school’s hospitality.
The national qualifier took place on the final day, with 25 independent schools competing and approximately 400 children, aged 8 to 11 years, racing for a coveted top ten finish in their age groups. Those top performers secured qualification to represent East Anglia at the national finals at Himley Hall & Park in the West Midlands on February 28.
Littlegarth School had a great day of racing with a host of podium finishes to become the overall ISA Junior Regional Champions.
Fearnley Knight, winner of the Year 4 Boys’ ISA Regional Cross-Country.
The Year 4 and 5/6 boys brought home gold to ensure the Junior Boys finished the competition in first place, while the Year 4 girls finished second and Year 5/6 fifth, meaning the Junior Girls finished in third place overall.
Head of Littlegarth School, Kathy Uttley, said: “Hosting this national qualifier for the second year has been a tremendous honour for our school. The energy and enthusiasm shown by every runner was remarkable, and events like this help nurture confidence, sportsmanship and a lifelong love of physical activity. We are extremely grateful to Fisher Jones Greenwood for their generous sponsorship, which played a vital role in making the event such a success.”
Parent Terry Knight said: “The event was exceptionally well organised and a fantastic experience for the children. Seeing them challenge themselves, support one another and cross the finish
line with such pride was truly special. We are thankful to everyone involved, including Fisher Jones Greenwood, for helping create an opportunity they will remember for years to come.”
Doug Field OBE, Managing Partner of Fisher Jones Greenwood, said: “We were incredibly proud to sponsor this outstanding event and support the next generation of athletes. It was inspiring to see so many young people demonstrate determination, resilience and teamwork while enjoying the many benefits that sport brings. At FJG, we are passionate about investing in our communities and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.”