The Times is giving local youngsters who want to write stories – which we’ll publish on our website and in our new digital publication – the chance to join our new Junior Journalist initiative.
Here’s a report from Junior Journalist Ashlee Peng:
On Thursday the 13th of June, Bucklands Beach Intermediate held a road race.
Many people attended, and the order of races was: year 7 girls, year 7 boys, year 8 girls, year 8 boys.
All the whanau’s/houses had a great time running and racing against each other.
Competitive runners were encouraged to try and win, while non-competitive runners could jog slowly or run at their own pace.
The race started off in the afternoon, cutting off 10 minutes of the kids’ lunchtime.
There were clear skies, with students eagerly lining up at the starting cones filled with nervousness and excitement.
Teachers, staff members and parents were also present, cheering on the participants and ensuring the smooth running of the event.
Participants competed in various categories based on their year groups, ensuring that every student had the opportunity to challenge themselves and contribute to their whānau teams’ overall score.
Students with injuries who were unable to run cheered their whanau on instead!
The route consisted of streets around the school, cutting across Pigeon Mountain Primary School, (their neighboring Primary School) and finally running into the school cloud.
During the race, the air buzzed with lively cheers and encouragement from fellow students, teachers, and spectators lining the course.
The event not only promoted physical fitness but also highlighted the values of sportsmanship and perseverance among the participants.
As the last participants crossed the finish line cones in the cloud, the air was filled with cheering and clapping.
Cards were awarded to the top twenty winners in the categories for a chance in interschool.
Whānau points were handed out, and the top fifty runners were listed earning more points for their whanau.
The cross-country road race at Bucklands Beach Intermediate School was a big hit!
It shows how much that school cares about making sure the students stay active and supportive to one another in all situations.
These races are not just about running – they help us love sports more and learn important skills like working together, staying focused, and not giving up when things get tough.
After another exciting sports event, students and staff at Bucklands Beach Intermediate School are excited about future opportunities to come together and celebrate athleticism and community spirit.
The race was so intense that even the birds were cheering from above!
- Ashlee Peng is in year 7 at Bucklands Beach Intermediate School
