Across the Pond...: Sports at St. Piran's

In British terms, St. Piran's is a very "sporty" school. As part of the regular curriculum, Lane has P.E. once a week, "games" twice a week (this means about an hour practice for the seasonal sport) and swimming once a week. In her year, they have "A" and "B" teams competing against other schools in afterschool matches every week or two.

All of this has been quite a transition for us. While there are great aspects to the athleticism and learning good sportsmanship, it can also get really competitive (for the kids AND the parents). I have to say that I've been particularly proud of Lane. She's learned three new sports (netball, field hockey and rounders), always has a great attitude and tries her best.

Here's a look at some of the events we've had in the last weeks of school....

- St. Piran's Triathlon. This was an optional event a couple of weekends ago, but Lane & Ryan wanted to join in the fun! The course was really doable for Ryan - scooter lap, bike lap and a short sprint - and was really challenging for Lane (swim, bike & run at the standard triathlon distances for her age group).
- Year 3 Swim Gala. This is when the Year 3 clans swim in a competition against each other.
- Lower School Sports Day. This is a sports "decathlon" that includes events like the "shotput" (throwing beanbags). Ryan really did well at all of the throwing events and received an award for outstanding effort!
- Middle School Sports Day. Yesterday was the Middle School Sports Day. This is usually an all-day Saturday event, but had to be postponed and shortened due to the rainy weather. Again, the events are along the lines of a decathlon and, again, I was so proud of Lane... most of all for her great attitude and enthusiasm!