SPORTING youngsters from across Glasgow enjoyed the sun as they took part in an annual cross-country fun run.
By Katherine Hill
SPORTING youngsters from across Glasgow enjoyed the sun as they took part in an annual cross-country fun run.
One thousand primary-age children raced around Nether Pollok Playing Fields in the 15th annual Glasgow Primary Schools Cross-Country Championships.
The P6 and P7 pupils, from 39 schools, competed in four different race categories.
Although the weather was fine, it was not long before the field resembled a mud bath as thousands of feet pounded the track. But that didn't stop all the competitors, not just the winners, from crossing the finishing line with smiles on their faces.
Andrea Crawford, one of the organisers, said: "It's great how many kids take part, and they always have a great day.
"My kids go to Caledonia Primary and they have worked out a song to jog to, so it's fun!"
Andrea explained that the run was part of the Curriculum for Excellence, helping children develop character as well as stamina and fitness. Her colleague Alison McMichael said: "It's great for promoting health and wellbeing, and it's beautiful and dry. Last year was awful: it rained throughout the day!"
Councillor Jonathan Findlay, the executive member for education, said: "The cross-country championships are part of a range of festivals and events held throughout the school year to improve the fitness levels of our youngsters. I know that they had great fun."
Hayley McArdle and Robyn Gilligan, both 11, from Croftfoot Primary School, were two of the competitors. Before the race last Friday, Hayley said: "We're looking forward to it. We've done some pace running to get ready, and it's going to be good fun. Our school's going to win!"
There were plenty of staff and parents at the park cheering on the kids, who were all having a great time.
Rhona Gray, PE teacher at Jordanhill, said: "All the kids enjoy the event. At our school we have inter-house events to give them some practice. They are all proud to represent their schools."
The event was organised by Glasgow City Council Primary PE specialists.
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And some of the winners were...
LIAM TURNER, P7, of Dunard Primary School, S McKay, P7, High School of Glasgow, L Stubing, P7, High School of Glasgow, G Callendar, P7, High School of Glasgow, Gillian Black, P7, Jordanhill Primary, Lucy Davidson, P7, Hutchesons' Grammar, Euan Urqhart, P6, Hyndland Primary, Caitlan Sloan, P6, St Fillan's, S Frame, P6, Kelvinside Academy. Charlotte Mason, P6, Hutchesons' Grammar, Jessica Boyle, P6, Hutchesons', Alexandra Rankin, P6, Glasgow Academy.
