In Pursuit of the Dobson Trophy

Following a week of persistent rain and drizzle, Claremont once again hosted the annual Dobson Trophy Cross Country competition in glorious sunshine. Renowned for being one of the most challenging cross country courses on the circuit (even without the mud), the sports team had the ingenious idea of  running the course in the opposite direction via the back fields, through the woods and past the lake to help steady our runners under foot, particularly in the closing stages when tired legs kick in!  As always we had a number of competitors comment on how much they love this course and how for many, it still remains their favourite!  With over 250 runners from 14 schools, our Year 6,7 and 8 marshals did a sterling job making sure everyone got round the course safely whilst giving them plenty of encouragement to keep their sights set on the finish line. Thanks to the Claremont staff who gave up their time to help the event run so smoothly and a huge thanks to the Friends of Claremont who kept us fed and watered by selling hot drinks and snacks to raise money for Children In Need. As always, Team Claremont did the school proud with our 36 runners once again tackling the course with true grit and determination. Highlights included Freddie H who finished 3rd in the U9 Boys’ race, Dora G who was 12th in the U11 Girls’ race and Leonardo H who having run consistently all season, sprinted home in 5th place. Our best overall positions came from our U13 Girls’ team who won their age group against 6 other school teams. Individual positions for this formidable team were Rowan (2nd), Charlotte W (3rd), Sophie K (6th), Ruby C (8th) and Tess R (13th). Finally, Felix N came in 3rd in the U13 Boys’ race with Mak L hot on his heels, finishing in 6th .  This is a much anticipated highlight of the sporting calendar at Claremont and I would like to thank everyone for their contributions and for making it such a great afternoon of sport.  Mr Catt – Head of Cross Country