Young Athletes Shine in Schools Finals
Youngsters from twelve Amber Valley Primary Schools had the chance to compete for their school in sportshall athletics Grand Finals. Each school had run, bounced and thrown their way to the Final by winning their area competition in September.
The competitions for children in school years 5 and 6, organised by Amber Valley Borough Councils Sports Development Unit, split competing schools according to their size.
The Final for large schools saw Swanwick Primary, St Johns CE Primary from Ripley, Marlpool Primary from Heanor, and The Meadows Primary from Duffield competing for the annual shield. In a very closely fought competition at Charles Hill Sports Complex, Loscoe, Meadows Primary emerged as the winning school, with St Johns and last years winners Swanwick close behind with Marlpool taking fourth place. Meadows continue their fine tradition in Sportshall athletics, having won the trophy in previous years.
Taking the trophy in the medium-sized school category was Breadsall Primary School. The competition was so close that a deciding relay race had to be held, with Breadsall pipping Leys Junior school, last years winners, in an exciting race. Denby Free and Belper’s St Elizabeths schools finished in third and fourth places.
In the small-sized schools competition Mapperley Primary school were clear winners. Morley Primary school, the reigning champions, were strong in the track events but eventually had to settle for second place. Crich Junior school and Turnditch Primary fought it out for third and fourth places respectively.
Presentations to all winners were made by Mr Melvyn Hall, Mayor of Amber Valley, and Mr Norman Bull, Deputy Mayor.
The competitions were supported by athletes and coaches from Amber Valley Athletic Club.