Dunhurst and Dunannie children become Olympians

July 20, 2012 - PRLog -- To celebrate the London Olympics, both Bedales Prep and Pre-prep Schools, Dunhurst and Dunannie, went Olympic crazy during their last two weeks of term. Dunhurst held their very own “Little London” Olympic event, while Dunannie held three Olympic-themed days, culminating in the Dunannie Olympic Games.

Dunhurst pupils came together to form six different countries and rotated around a carousel of Olympic themed workshops designed to educate, motivate and inspire the athletes of tomorrow.

European silver medallist Dan Bailey from GB Triathlon gave the pupils a flavour of what it is like to perform at the very highest level. Former semi pro rugby player Mike Marsh provided insights into the training you might endure to develop core skills such as speed, agility and coordination with a practical training session. The PE department delivered a session on Olympic values, which are so important to reinforce positive sportsmanship.

Pupils also experienced new Olympic sports and Dunhurst was thrilled to have the support of Petersfield Bowmen archery club to teach basic skills. Mike Prior delivered a fantastic Taekwondo session that is still being talked about. Golf is to feature in the 2016 Olympics in Rio and pupils were able to try their hand at golf with support from Dunhurst teacher Mark Collins.

Each country was scored for their efforts based on the Olympic values and Team South Africa was crowned eventual winners.

In the afternoon, pupils competed in an athletics competition called Quad Kids. Individuals competed in a sprint and middle distance event, a throw and a jump. All performances were scored and results collated. There were some excellent performances as the pupils competed with energy and enthusiasm.

Jane Grubb, Head of Dunhurst, commented:

“I am very grateful to our new Head of Sport Heather Lowe for organising such a fantastic Olympic Day for the whole school. Pupils enjoyed meeting professionals, trying out new sports and doing full-on Olympic fitness training. It was an enthusing and energetic day that generated great excitement for London 2012.”

The following week, Dunannie held their Olympic Burst comprising three days of Olympic-themed events, culminating in the Dunannie Olympic Games. Mixed year groups, representing many countries of the world, completed in a variety of challenges. In true Olympic spirit the teams were required to work together harmoniously and be supportive of their own and other teams. There were treasure hunts, quizzes, tennis, streamer and torch-making activities, and a swimming gala for Years 2 and 3. Great fun was had by all.