SIR John Deane’s Sixth Form College are hailing a “phenomenal” achievement by their athletes.
Six of their students stormed the national stage, delivering an outstanding performance at the England Schools Athletics Association Cross Country Finals.
Competing against the best in the country, the girls cross country team secured an impressive second place overall – and proudly claimed the title of top state school from an initial field of 215 teams.
They finished only behind Guildford High School, a Surrey-based independent school renowned for its sporting pedigree.
The event, held at Princethorpe College in Warwickshire, featured a fiercely competitive field, including the under 18s European 3K champion and many of the country’s top age-group cross-country runners.
Against this elite line-up, Sir John Deane’s athletes rose to the challenge and delivered exceptional individual performances, with the points accumulation from the top four runners determining the overall positioning.
Eva Jha, a Vale Royal Athletics Club runner from Weaverham, was first home for the school in ninth place.
Hot on her heels in the four counting places were Warrington Athletics Club’s Esme Heavey, 12th; Vale Royal’s Hayley Holland from Norbury, 45th and Holly Coates from Chester, 51st.
The team was completed by Eva Mion, a Macclesfield Harriers runner, 59th; and Chloe Taylor from Holmes Chapel, 129th.
College chiefs say the incredible result reflects the dedication, talent, and teamwork of the athletes and their coaches, cementing Sir John Deane’s growing reputation in school athletics.
Jenny Thorp, head of PE and sport at the college, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of this team.
“To finish second overall against such a strong field – and to be the top state school – is a phenomenal achievement.
“Every runner gave their all, and their commitment and resilience really shone through.
“This result is a testament to the incredible work being done by the athletic clubs in the area and the fantastic support from everyone involved.”
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