Blackpool schools race for glory at indoor athletics finals

The weeks leading up to the event had seen hundreds of students put through their paces in PE lessons, after-school clubs and Level 1 competitions in an attempt to secure a place in the squad for the Level 2 competition.

The event was split into four categories for Year 7 boys, Year 7 girls, Year 8 boys and Year 8 girls, which kept official scorekeeper Donna Swarbrick on her toes as the scoresheets were submitted at the end of each event.

The introduction of the shot putt and 8-lap paarlauf races made for an exciting step up in strength and stamina as many of the athletes had made the transition from primary school competition.

Montgomery, St George’s, St Mary’s, Aspire, South Shore and Park Community Academy provided the action on the track and field under the supervision of Team Sport Blackpool and Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde Athletic Club, who had both supported every event of the indoor athletics season once again.

As with the primary school competition, the event was brought to a close with the relays which ensured that the watching friends and family were given one final chance to cheer on the athletes before getting their cameras ready for the celebrations and awards presentation.

The Year 7 boys from St George’s were announced as winners for their category before Montgomery cleaned up in the other categories to be crowned winners of the Year 7 girls’, Year 8 boys’ and Year 8 girls’ competitions.

Dave Rohman, Blackpool School Games Organiser, said: “Many of the participants had previously competed in primary school, so it is really encouraging to see them continue their involvement in athletics.

“Congratulations go to all of the students who took part for a great show of athletic ability, and the best of luck to St George’s and Montgomery when they represent Blackpool at the Lancashire County Finals.”

A dozen schools took part in the Wyre & Fylde School Sports Partnership Year 5/6 Sportshall Athletics Finals. The 12 had reached the finals after qualifying from heats held across the partnership since November. The winning school was Garstang Community, who will now progress to the Lancashire Finals. The event was supported by young leaders from Millfield High School and Hodgson Academy, along with volunteers from Blackpool Wyre & Fylde Athletic Club. The Year 8 Finals take place this afternoon at Cardinal Allen High School and will feature in next week’s AllStars.