Top class effort by Forres pupils at cross country event
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FORRES primary school pupils were winners at the 11th annual cross country event in Gordonstoun.
A total of 200 pupils were split into three age groups and battled testing conditions which produced some close finishes.
The six races produced winners from six schools, some who have already made a name for themselves with local running clubs.
Robert McVean, head of the junior school at Gordonstoun, said: “Despite the wintry weather conditions, it was fantastic to welcome all 18 participating primary school teams.
“Competitions such as these cannot happen without the support of the accompanying staff for which we are extremely grateful.
“Very well done to all those who took part and thank you to all those who turned up to support with such enthusiasm.”
Results: Primary 5 boys: 1 Ben Ross (Applegrove); 2 Lewis Paterson (Mosstowie); 3 Luca Green (Bishopmill).
Primary 5 girls: 1 Eva Esslemont (Anderson’s); 2 Sophie Howard (Anderson’s); 3 Olivia Wood (Cullen).
Primary 6 boys: 1 William Cook (Gordonstoun); 2 Thomas Reynolds (Hopeman); 3 Roy Taylor (Millbank).
Primary 6 girls: 1. Zara Gill (Cullen); 2 Aaliyah McCloud (St Sylvesters); 3 Nicole Taylor (Millbank).
Primary 7 boys: 1 Bruce Newlands (Millbank); 2 Bruce Evans (Applegrove); 3 Liam Harvey (Greenwards).
Primary 7 girls: 1 Jessica Nairn (West End); 2 Cara Christie (West End); 3 Lily Avenell (Anderson’s).
Forres Harrier Susan McRitchie was a parent helper for the Applegrove team.
She said: “There were some notable performances in tough conditions.
“It was noted that the hard work put in during Harriers and Applegrove Running Club training is paying off!”
Anderson’s also have a lunchtime training club organised by Active Schools and delivered by Doug Cowie, Fran Britain and Michelle Esson. Proud head teacher Mrs Maureen Mooney was delighted with the team’s spirit, dedication and effort.
She said: “This was Eva Esslemont’s first competition – she was nervous and excited at the same time.
“The final burst towards the finish fine meant that she just pipped her classmate Sophie Howard to the post.
“Lily Avenell never fails to give her all and her third place was yet another demonstration of her commitment.”
