Greater Manchester success in festivals of sport

Twice a year, the ten Greater Manchester Boroughs come together for festivals of sport. For a school to qualify they need to win their local area competition which, when you consider that Bolton has over 90 Primary Schools, can prove to be very tough. Clevelands Prep has achieved a place in these prestigious games three times this year; A tremendous effort by the children and staff. Earlier this year our Infant Gymnasts qualified for the Winter Games. On Wednesday we had Year Three and Four teams in both the tennis and golf finals. Fourteen children from Clevelands, pitching themselves against the best from across Greater Manchester.

The day started at a spectacular and moving Opening Ceremony. The theme was very much about ‘Being Positive’, and talked around how we keep strong and move forward after the Manchester bomb attack. We were treated to a reading of the poem ‘This Is The Place’, were entertained by the, now very famous, Parrs Wood Choir who sang at the One Love Manchester Concert. The whole arena also joined in with ‘Don't Look Back in Anger’. It was a tremendous start to the day that the children thoroughly enjoyed and a memory that I am sure will stay with us for a long time.

It was then time for the events. The tennis team fought off some tough competition and finished 12^th out of 20. Considering they were up against the very best from across the region, this was a very creditable result.

The golf team played some super shots and improved their teamwork and support throughout the event. The final positions are not yet known, but needless to say that both teams represented school superbly and the name of Clevelands is spreading as these talented children continue to succeed.

It was a great day to end a great sporting year. We are very proud of all of the children who showed determination as well as talent.