Hailsham Primary Cluster Cross Country Event
The Hailsham Primary Schools Cross Country Cluster Event took place on Wednesday 13th May 2026 at Hailsham Academy, bringing together 61 pupils from across the local area for an exciting afternoon of running!
The event included pupils from:
- Hawkes Farm Primary School
- Hailsham Academy Primary Phase
- Hellingly Primary School
- Grovelands Primary School
Despite the event taking place under the shadow of incoming storm clouds, there was a perfectly timed break in the weather which allowed both races to go ahead in ideal conditions. A fantastic atmosphere was created by pupils, staff, and parents, with plenty of support and encouragement throughout.
The afternoon began with the girls race, where runners completed three laps of the course before finishing through the funnel. After final instructions from Mr Delmon, the race got underway with Savannah from Hellingly taking an early lead, setting a strong pace through the opening two laps. Runners from Hawkes Farm and Hailsham Academy remained close behind, ready to challenge. Across the rest of the runners, it was great to see so many pupils running with smiles, supporting one another and working together. The encouragement from spectators added to a very positive and supportive atmosphere. Back to the top three and it would be in the final lap where the race came alive. With around 300 metres to go, Ava from Hawkes Farm surged from fourth place into the lead with an excellent burst of speed. A brief moment of confusion near the finish allowed others to close in, setting up a thrilling sprint finish. A group of four/five runners darted for the finish, Ava just able to hold onto top spot. The top three were separated by just over a second:
- 1st: Ava (Hawkes Farm) – 6:57.08
- 2nd: Lemon (Hailsham Academy) – 6:58.2
- 3rd: Savannah (Hellingly) – 6:58.6
The boys’ race followed and delivered another impressive display of effort and determination. Alex from Hailsham Academy took control of the race early, leading from the front and maintaining a strong, consistent pace throughout. Harrison from Hailsham Academy and Elliott from Hellingly stayed in close pursuit during the early stages. It would be in the final 200 metres that Alex would find another gear, pulling away to secure first place in a dominant performance from start to finish.
The top three finishers were:
- 1st: Alex (Hailsham Academy) – 4:53.51
- 2nd: Harrison (Hailsham Academy) – 4:57.73
- 3rd: Elliott (Hellingly) – 5:00.05
During both races there was great resilience shown by all runners. Many found the three laps physically demanding, but showed real determination and perseverance to complete the course. As previously mentioned, it was particularly pleasing to see pupils encouraging one another and working together, demonstrating excellent sportsmanship throughout the event.
Thank you as always to all staff and volunteers who helped organise the event, and to the pupils and families who contributed to such a positive and successful afternoon. We now look on to the next event on the 3rd June which is the Year 5/6 Rounders competition.
