Who Won the Boarders’ Games Trophy?

The summer equinox earlier this week made way for an evening of sunshine and warmth, and what better way to make the most of the lovely long days than by holding our inaugural Boarders’ Games.

After a difficult year for the boarding community, we wanted to give them a fun-filled evening to bring the boarding houses together safely and end the academic year on a high. And so, after consultation with the boys themselves, the first ever Boarders’ Games was born.

The concept was based around “It’s a Knock-Out” – if you are old enough to remember this – although minus the foam! Boys competed in their houses in games such as Bucking Bronco, Vortex Throw, Inflatable Hoops and Rugby Darts.

Of course, no games competition would be the same without some of the more traditional events such as the three-legged race and good old egg and spoon – some very dubious techniques were witnessed. The boys also competed in a tennis ball catch with balls thrown by the Head Master, and a sack race using mail sacks courtesy of the Bell Room!

There were some sterling performances on display too. Rugby Scholar James Neal won the rugby darts (with enviable style), and Danny Champion won the Vortex Throw with one very impressive throw.

At half time, the boys enjoyed a delicious barbeque cooked up by our catering team and sat eating and chatting on the grass as the sun began to set.

Chris Bury, Senior Boarding Housemaster told us, “To help celebrate National Boarding Week, we wanted to introduce an event which would be fun and bring the boarding community together safely after this difficult year. The idea of ‘The Boarders Games’ came about through discussions with the senior boys and with the help of many colleagues through school we managed to put on an event that hit the mark perfectly, where all boarders could participate and contribute. It certainly created some good and long-lasting memories. After its success, we will definitely be looking to make this an annual boarding event.”

After an incredible effort by all, and a whole heap of fun, it was Sanderson’s House who were crowned the victors and awarded a big shiny trophy for their efforts.

Then it was back to their boarding houses just in time to watch England beat Czech Republic 1-0 in the UEFA European Championships.

A great night indeed!