Youngsters on their marks for sporting glory

The Tyne and Wear School Games Sportshall Athletics finals at the Temple Park Centre.

Hundreds of sporty competitors flocked to Temple Park Centre, South Shields to show off their skills in the Tyne and Wear Sportshall Athletics Finals.

Pupils from schools in the borough and across Tyne and Wear – from Year 5 through to Year 8 – took part in a host of athletic activities from relays to jumping exercises.

More than 600 youngsters took part in the Tyne and Wear School Games Sportshall Athletics finals.

A bumper turnout of more than 600 energetic children took a break from sums and science to get kitted out for sporting competition.

Boys and girls from St Aloysius, Boldon, St Bede and St Joseph’s schools proved the pride of South Tyneside during an action-packed programme on Friday.

It was a thrilling finale to a planned two-day sporting schedule after the first day of the double-header unfortunately fell victim to the weather.

Thursday’s itinerary – which was due to include the first disabled competition in the School Games – was postponed after heavy snow wreaked havoc with travel for school teams.

The Tyne and Wear School Games Sportshall Athletics Finals gets the thumbs up.

The competition is set to be rescheduled by organisers. Despite the opening day disappointment, a forecast for fun became a brilliant reality 24 hours later.

Elizabeth Cann, 11, team captain of St Aloysius RC Infant School, who scooped a silver medal, said: “We had some trials at school and because I did well I was picked to be team captain.

“I’ve taken part in the obstacle relay race, long jump and triple jump today.

“The thing I like most about the School Games is the atmosphere; we are all cheering each other on.

Youngsters took part in games including an obstacle relay race, long jump and triple jump.

“Even though it’s a team effort, everyone counts.

“I also take part in gymnastics, cross country and tag rugby. I want to keep competing and one day I’d love to get to the Olympics.”

Classmate Darya Murray-Hetherington, 10, added: “Winning silver is great. It’s been really hard this year as everyone has been very competitive and is trying their best.

“I took part in the six-lap relay, the over-and-under relay, vertical jump and speed bounce.

“It’s been great fun. I like pushing myself to do the best I can and everyone has encouraged each other.

“I also like to playing tag rugby and also go cycling a lot.

“The good thing about sport is it’s good fun and it makes sure you never get bored.”