Under 13 Inter House Cross Country

The Year 7 & 8 Cross Country on Monday 22 September 2025 kicked off the week in style. All competitors were raring to go, and enthusiasm was at an all-time high. On the gentle jog to Elleray for the start line, discussions about who was going to win were passionate, showing what it means to be part of a house group at Windermere School. Prior to the event, runners were split into two categories, a shorter route to the top and a longer one. The shorter event started well with Mr Foster’s whistle, and he was nearly run over by the runners setting off to win. The whole race was tight, with not long at all between all of the participants. Lucy, in the blue shirt of Flemyng just tipped the double yellows of Strickland behind her. Mr Dolman started the longer race, where many tactics were being planned amongst the runners. The grueling ‘lung burner’ climb from Elleray to the summit of Orrest Head was a real test of character, determination and skill. From Year 9, Magnus was the hare, and he had to set a high pace to stay ahead of the head-to-head battle between Jonah and Algy. Although close together for most of the climb, Algy, in the red shirt of Cavendish pulled away, having left some gas in the tank for a quick finish. The overall points were collected by the Super-Computer at the summit. With Strickland the winning house, showing that teamwork and consistency was what was needed on the day.

Under 18 Inter House Cross Country

As Wednesday afternoon came round, it was the turn of Year 11, 12 and 13. With many students away representing the school in Netball and Football fixtures, we had a field of 18 runners. Enthusiasm was not quite at the level of Year 7 and 8 but the effort, determination and teamwork were clearly visible. With three different year groups in the same race, it was a little unknown on the start line as to who would win the race. Jake L-S from Cavendish put together an exceptional race, flying past Mr Otunnu who was cheering on at the halfway point. He was followed by Owen in the yellow of Strickland and Ben in the Blue of Flemyng. This race showed that running is an enjoyable sport and no matter the pace you run at or the position you finish, you can do it with a smile on your face and your good friends around you. Overall winners were Flemyng with 4 runners finishing in the top 7.

Under 15 Inter House Cross Country

The finale was the Year 9 & 10 Cross Country event on Friday afternoon. After a long week for all, what a way to finish in the Lake District sunshine surrounded by your mates during one of the best subjects in the timetable. Two strong races were ahead, and some more excellent running by all. Kicking off the afternoon was the short race, Albert ran a stellar race in his red shirt of Cavendish, finishing with both arms aloft and a proud smile on his face. Francis in the green of Lonsdale did himself proud with a second-place finish and superb running from Thomas in Flemyng claimed the final step on the podium. The long race was the final event of the week, and with much arguing at the start line as to which house was the best, the whistle started, and the concentration faces were on. A really high pace was set, and it was tough to keep up with the leaders. Having heard Monday’s race, Magnus knew exactly what to expect and had a well thought-through plan in his head. He set a quick pace out of the blocks and maintained this into the steepest climb, he then took off into the distance and nobody saw him again. George Allen put together an excellent run and just beat fellow house-member Jacob to the finish line. With 4 runners in the top 6, Cavendish won the overall event combining points from both races.

A truly amazing week for sport at Windermere School. The students showed what it meant to be part of our school and displayed all of the qualities and values that intertwine into everything we do. As the PE department, we were exceptionally proud of all participants this week, not just for the running; but for the spirit in which the events took place. The U9 and U11 events take place this week coming, and then all of the points will be added together to determine the overall winning house, claiming the much famous Golden Trophy for 2025.

Windermere School is an Independent Boarding and Day School for ages 3-18, across Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school offers holiday courses and a summer school programme, as well as short term immersion courses for international pupils, as well as an award winning IB programme. Join the adventure today >