Barefoot cross country
Pukehou and Poukawa schools were lucky to be able to hold their annual combined cross country before the rain came.
Hosted by Pukehou School, the students were tested on a hilly course that took them over neighbouring Te Aute Trust farm.
Pukehou principal Chris Birch said the pupils put in a lot of training before the event, with many opting to race in bare feet on the day in in true rural school style.
“It’s always great to see the kids out racing around the paddocks and teachers noticed an improvement in behaviour and attention after training. Keeping kids active is something we are continually building on with lunchtime yoga, sports practise and Friday sports and environment afternoons,” he said.
Regardless of results, Mr Birch said the pupils from both schools were successful in his view.
“They gave it their very best; they dug in and did it to the best of their ability. That is success in my eyes.”
Along with their determination and competitive spirit, Birch said the pupils were driven to make the finish line with treats from from the Pukehou Wha¯ nau and Friends’ baking stall.
Pulled lamb burgers prepared by a Pukehou School father, who is head chef at Craggy Range, meant parents were also well-catered for while watching the action, said Mr Birch.