Charlestown Primary School Hosts Successful Cross-Country Meet

The vibrant energy of athletic competition filled the air at Charlestown Primary School on Tuesday, January 28th, 2025, as the institution hosted its annual cross-country event. The picturesque landscape surrounding the school, extending through the neighboring Ramsbury area, transformed into a dynamic racecourse for students of all ages. Eight separate races were meticulously organized, categorized by age group, ensuring fair competition and allowing each student the opportunity to shine. The course, originating at the back of the school and culminating at the front, challenged the young athletes with varying distances, with older students undertaking longer, more demanding routes. The event showcased not only the physical prowess of the students but also their dedication, sportsmanship, and the culmination of their training. The entire school community, including teachers, parents, and fellow students, rallied together to create an atmosphere of encouragement and support for the participants.

The kindergarten races, the first of the day, witnessed the spirited determination of the youngest competitors. Erielle Ross, representing the Red team, secured the top spot in the girls’ race, followed closely by Zhavia Simpson from Green and Thaleigha Samuel from Blue. In the boys’ race, Jonas Hendrickson emerged victorious, with Kyle Meikle taking second place and Frienyel Sarmeinto finishing third. These budding athletes, some participating in their first formal race, set a positive tone for the rest of the day’s events, demonstrating the school’s commitment to fostering a love of physical activity from an early age. Their enthusiastic participation highlighted the importance of early introduction to competitive sports and the foundational role of physical education in a child’s holistic development.

The excitement continued to build as the 1st and 2nd graders took to the course. Caesara Carter led the girls’ race to victory, with Sa’shaunna Earle and De’yonae Lake securing the second and third positions, respectively. The boys’ race saw a dominant performance by Nathaniel Stephens, followed by Ramian Gumbs and Crishon Persaud. These young runners exhibited a growing understanding of pacing and strategy, navigating the course with increasing confidence. Their performance underscored the importance of continued physical activity and the development of athletic skills throughout elementary school. The camaraderie amongst the participants was evident, demonstrating the positive impact of sports on building social skills and fostering teamwork.

As the day progressed, the 3rd and 4th graders showcased their enhanced stamina and competitive spirit. Joanna Frith claimed first place in the girls’ race, with Stariah France and Glenneka Huggins trailing closely behind. The boys’ race saw a thrilling finish, with Lawjorn Forbes emerging as the winner, followed by Josiah Meade and Divine Uzodinma. The increased distance covered by this age group highlighted their growing physical capabilities and the positive effects of sustained physical activity on endurance and overall fitness. Their dedication to training and their competitive spirit reflected the school’s emphasis on fostering a healthy lifestyle and encouraging participation in sports.

The culminating races of the day, featuring the 5th and 6th graders, exemplified the highest levels of skill and endurance displayed at the event. Ikiesha Hendrickson led the girls’ race with a commanding performance, followed by Bethiah Barry and Amara Parris. In the boys’ race, Zakeem Bailey demonstrated exceptional speed and stamina, securing the top spot, with Alex Watson and Terique Roberts rounding out the top three. These older students served as role models for their younger peers, demonstrating the benefits of long-term commitment to physical fitness and the potential for achieving high levels of athletic performance. Their performances reflected not only individual talent but also the collaborative efforts of coaches and teachers who supported their development throughout their time at the school.

The Charlestown Primary School annual cross-country event proved to be a resounding success, celebrating the athletic achievements of the students while promoting the importance of physical activity, sportsmanship, and community spirit. The event not only highlighted individual accomplishments but also showcased the collective effort of the school community in creating a positive and supportive environment for the students to flourish. The dedication of the teachers, coaches, and parents in organizing and supporting the event contributed significantly to its success. The event serves as a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded educational experience that values physical health alongside academic pursuits, contributing to the holistic development of each child.