The Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk successfully hosted the first Suffolk Schools’ Cross Country Trials of the 2024-2025 season on the 17th of October 2024. The event saw approximately 1,600 pupils from over 50 schools across Suffolk, ranging from Years 5 to 13, compete throughout the day on the school’s expansive grounds.
The trials, which spanned six hours, marked the beginning of a series of competitions leading up to the Suffolk Anglian Finals and the English Schools’ Athletics Association (ESAA) Cross Country Championships. The pupils competed in timed races at staggered intervals, with varying course lengths designed for different age groups.
Noteworthy individual performances from RHS include Sean Eales, X-Co captain, who finished 11th in the senior boys’ race, Josh Steyn (Year 7), who placed 4th in the minor boys’ race, and Megan Daley (Year 8), who ranked in the top 50 of the junior girls’ race. Each of these pupils has earned their spot in the next round, which will be held at Woodbridge School on Thursday, 16th January 2025. Participants who placed in the top 50 of their respective races automatically qualify for the upcoming stage.
The trials were supported by a number of RHS pupils, who are sports leaders, assisting with the smooth running of the day. Staff members from multiple schools across the region were also present to ensure the success of the trials, along with a wonderful team of volunteers who were marshalling, time-keeping, planning and organising.
Key Dates for Suffolk Schools’ Cross Country 2024-2025:
- Thursday 16 January 2025: Second Round, Woodbridge School
- Saturday 1 February 2025: Final Suffolk Race, Woodbridge School
- Saturday 15 March 2025: Suffolk Anglian Finals, Woodbridge School
- ESAA Cross Country Championships: Haywards Heath, Sussex (Date TBC)
Brian Martineau, Assistant Head (Co-curricular) at Royal Hospital School commented on the event saying: “It was fantastic hosting so many Suffolk schools and 1,600 pupils at the Suffolk Cross Country Area Trials, on the 17th October! A huge well done to everyone who participated, and special congratulations to those who made it through to the next round. The level of effort, sportsmanship, and determination on display was truly inspiring.”
The Royal Hospital School was delighted to be at the heart of the season’s launch and extends its congratulations to all who participated and to those advancing to the next round.
Categories: Royal Hospital School School News
