Students from a Newport school put in an outstanding performance in a community running event that attracted competitors from all over the area.
The Bayley Mile is a traditional road race for pupils from local schools that started in the 1930s and was revived 28 years ago.
It takes place on a course around Wellington and is organised by Wellington Town Council.
This year, athletes from Burton Borough School in Newport took part, and principal Caroline Bedford said they showed a true display of ‘talent, determination and individual brilliance’.
In the under 13 girls’ category, Isla Haycox from Burton Borough claimed first place – breaking a long-standing course record with a time of 5 minutes 42 seconds.
“Our under 13 boys also delivered outstanding results – Jamie Howard finished in third place, with Finlay Bell close behind in fourth,” said Mrs Bedford.
“Together with teammates Ellis Fletcher and William Lindsay, they secured a wonderful first place finish for the under 13 boys’ team. What a fantastic achievement from a hard-working group.”
In the under 15 boys’ race, Lewis Howard finished in first place, setting another new course record with a time of 4 minutes 48 seconds, and Eastwood Roberts ran brilliantly to take third place.
Mrs Bedford said: “The individual achievements on display were just outstanding. Each athlete showed incredible focus, determination and strength of character. The success of our students is a testament to the PE department and a reflection of the team’s dedication.”
The original Bayley Mile race was the idea of John Bayley who founded a school (later to be named Wrekin College) and was knighted in 1921 for his services to education.
It was revived in 1996 when Jim Mostyn of Wrekin College and Gary Davies as Mayor of Wellington decided to hold an event that would bring local schools together in a competitive environment.
