Bilsthorpe pupils complete mini-London Marathon challenge clocking up 330 miles together

Every child at the school participated in the event, completing at least 11 laps of their school field, and collectively running a collective 330 miles over the course of one week.

The children’s efforts have earned the school the Mini-London Marathon Award, now on display in the school’s trophy cabinet.

Robyn is a pupil in year three and took part said: “I loved it and I feel like I did a good job.

“I want to run more in the future.

“Me and my friend Mila do park run at the weekends.”

Josh Poxon, sports coach, said the event promoted fitness, resilience, wellbeing, and school spirit, while allowing pupils to be part of a nationwide celebration of physical activity linked to the London Marathon.

He continued: “Our children loved taking part, they demonstrated fantastic determination, teamwork, and enthusiasm throughout the challenge.

“Every child successfully completed at least 11 laps of the school playground, equating to approximately two miles each.

“Some children even took it upon themselves to complete extra laps during lunchtime and before school, demonstrating incredible motivation and commitment.”

Pupil Kian, who is in year five, had advice for fellow pupils saying: “Preserve your energy, it’s not a race it’s just a bit of fun!”

Debsie, in year 5 had a tactical approach to the marathon, saying: “It’s not how fast you run, it’s how much stamina you have.

“The marathon was a long distance so you couldn’t just sprint it.”

James, in year four, agreed, saying: “No matter how slow or fast you are, keep on pushing.” 

Esme, who is in year three, said: “It doesn’t matter if you didn’t do all of it.

“It just matters how much fun you had.”

Year five pupil Leila agreed, adding: “It doesn't matter if you win or lose, it matters how much fun you have.” 

Fellow year five pupil Alfie said it was fun and he enjoyed taking part with his friends, and Nicole (year three) and Erin (year five) both said it was fun, but also tiring.

Charlotte, in year five, commented: “It wasn't the same number of laps as the real London marathon, but it was just as tiring!”

Arya, also in year 5 agreed but added, “It was really tiring - but it was worth it!”

Chris Reynolds, head teacher, said: “Our children have made us truly proud with their efforts in this mini-marathon event.  

“Completing over 330 miles in total is an amazing achievement and we are delighted to have the trophy in the cabinet to remind all of our children of their collective and individual efforts - a huge well-done to Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy children.”