21/02/2021
As we enter the final day of the competition, there is everything still to play for. After all the walking, cycling, scootering and travelling in a wheelchair undertaken over the past 6 days, the final results will be decided after one last push to the line. You may be leading the field as the marathon enters the stadium for a final lap, but if you don’t have the killer instinct to make one last decisive sprint for home, leaving nothing on the table, then all that hard work could all be in vain. Don’t let that happen. Remember - Pain is temporary. Glory is forever.
The absolute distance competition is extremely close with only 135km separating our new leaders Bramingham with Stoke Bishop, who have led the field for the majority of the competition. We know Stoke Bishop have the ability to produce a distance of over 1,000km in a day. Can they do it now, to reclaim their title as the undisputed national distance champion? Can Roecroft stay ahead of Hiltingbury to claim 3rd? This is going to be a huge day!
On an average distance per pupil basis, Shiplake Primary remain in the lead, but after a relatively subdued Saturday distance of 1.76km per pupil, they are at risk of losing to their nemesis Alexander Hosea on the final day. This would be hugely disappointing for Shiplake and they need to ensure they mobilise the troops and put in the distances that they are accustomed to, to become the greatest pound or pound endurance machine, the country has yet seen. Shiplake - don’t stop fighting until you cross the line!
On a pupil participation basis, Stoke bishop have amassed a total of 518 pupil entries, with Bramingham 2nd on 506. It is highly likely that whoever wins this competition today, also wins the absolute distance battle. Sound the Horn of Gondor, mobilise the troops, and lets see who truly has the most powerful army!
On a percentage participation basis, the key battle is for 3rd spot, with Ranby being only 0.3% behind Y Bont Faen Primary. This is a battle of WhatsApp!
Finally, on a staff basis, Bramingham staff are just 6km ahead of Edward Peake. The battle between these two schools has been incredible. No matter what happens today, the schools will have increased respect for the grit and determination that exists within all their members of staff.
Good luck everybody - it all comes down to today! Go for it!