Technical and Tough: Fifteen High Schools Face Calvary’s Gruelling Cross Country Track
Teams from fifteen local high schools recently went head-to-head in a challenging cross country event held on the demanding grounds of Calvary Christian College.
“This is a tough cross country track and, in places, really technical,” noted Mr. Barkhuizen, the principal of Calvary Christian College.
“In the past, our athletes used to train on a relatively flat course. This didn’t help us when we came up against teams from KwaZulu-Natal, because they trained on hills,” he added. “Now we run here, and this course prepares our athletes much better for any terrain they might face out there.”
Competing Schools
Athletes from across the region gave it their all, showing immense determination. The schools represented on the track included:
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Calvary Christian College
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Sir John Adamson High School
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President High School
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St Martin’s School
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Waterstone College
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St Andrew’s School
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Mondeor High School
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Covenant College
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Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic School
Event Divisions & Distances
The athletes pushed through the grit and technical turns across four main competitive divisions:
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Senior Boys: 6-kilometre course
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Senior Girls: 4-kilometre course
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Junior Boys: 4-kilometre course
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Junior Girls: 4-kilometre course
The sheer difficulty of the terrain was felt by everyone. As one exhausted competitor crossed the finish line, she collapsed and said, ”I’ll never do this again.”
But as any true runner knows—much like those preparing for the upcoming Comrades Marathon—she will undoubtedly be back next time with a renewed attitude of “there ain’t no mountain high enough.”
The Road to Gauteng South Colours
The stakes are high for these athletes. To secure a coveted selection for the Gauteng South team, runners must consistently place in the top 18 positions across a series of five events.
Those who successfully claim their spot will be awarded their regional colours and earn the prestigious opportunity to compete at the inter-provincial championships in Tshwane later this year.
