On Sunday 14 May, a group of boarders took part in the Hairy Legs Challenge; a local cross country race for runners of all ages. The fundraising event takes place across Goring and Streatley, and is a tough but enjoyable challenge for families. This was the first year that Shiplake have entered a team into the race, and were joined by a record number of runners from the local area – over 600 people! Mr Jim Reynolds provides the following report of a fun-filled Sunday morning.
‘A party of Burr House boarders got up bright and early to represent Shiplake College at the Hairy Legs Challenge in Goring. The 6km course was a mixture of road, lush forest and brutal hills, offering a challenge for all abilities! The boys did themselves proud, with 100% of the group finishing the tough race. Notable mention must go to Alastair Holbrough and Kesha Sarkybayev, who came second and seventh in their age categories, respectively. Shiplake boarders are definitely developing a taste for distance running, and we hope to return the same time next year!’
Proceeds from the event will go towards funding facilities for local primary schools. Co-founder Phil Rose commented: ‘there’s always a relaxed atmosphere and a real sense of community. People rock up with great big smiles on their faces. We had a record field in terms of the number of athletes, and it’s particularly exciting that about half of them were 18 or under!’