Our in-house running legend, Amelia Moody (Lower 5) lived up to all expectations on Saturday 3 February to secure her spot in the national finals following an outstanding performance at the South West Schools’ Cross Country Championships in Truro.
As the saying goes: A cross-country runner’s life is never straight forward! Driving rain made for incredibly muddy and slippery conditions but Amelia ran another brilliant race to finish in sixth place out of the best 61 runners to have qualified from Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset , Avon, Wilshire and Gloucestershire.
“I felt very nervous on Saturday as the course looked so windy and complex and I knew it would decide whether or not I would go to the Nationals. I live and run on Dartmoor so I’m used to mud, but the mud on Saturday was extra slippery,” said Amelia.
“I had been running most evenings after school. It is a bit scary at times as I don’t really like the dark. I’m looking forward to the lighter evenings!! I am very excited and honoured to be going to the Nationals and, for the next five weeks, I’m going to ensure that I put lots of effort in so that I get the best out of the experience. I’m extremely grateful for all the support I have been given during the course of the competition as it has been a fantastic motivator.”
Our congratulations also to Katie Harries (Upper 3) who ran the Mini Girls race in the lashing rain. She surely looks to have a bright sporting career ahead of her!
The ESSA National Championships take place on 18 March 2017 in Norwich and we wish Amelia the best of luck!
