Cross Country

Girls' Captain: Siphesihle Sikhosana

Girls' Vice Captain: Emily McMurray

Boy's Captain: Cayden Flockhart

Boys' Vice Captain: Campbell Turner

Our Junior and Senior runners have had an excellent cross country season this term. The focus has been on having a big squad of keen runners. It has been wonderful to see the group grow and thrive as we have set off into the forest and explored the various sections of the newly mapped tail. We have worked on stretching, breathing and warming down, as well as when it is necessary to sprint or pace ourselves. Our campus provides a wonderful mix of hills, single track and flats, which has prepared the runners well for the various inter school fixtures that have taken place each Friday afternoon. The children have loved pioneering the home track as well as setting new records for the Inter-house and Inter-school fixtures. 

The team travelled to a range of schools across the region—each with its terrain, atmosphere, and test of endurance. Among the many schools we visited this season were Laddsworth, Cowan House, and a course set at World’s View in Pietermaritzburg. Each route offered something different: Laddsworth’s course included stretches through the St Anne’s Wetland and open fields; Cowan House featured a scenic loop through their eco-area and sports grounds; and World’s View presented a more rugged natural trail, testing stamina across uneven terrain and inclines.

Our children rose to each of these challenges with determination and heart. Many of our runners regularly placed in the top 10, with some achieving podium finishes. This is a testament to their consistent effort, focused training, and positive team spirit. Week after week, they represented Clifton with pride—not just in results, but in attitude and sportsmanship.

A standout feature of the season was the unity shown by our cross country captains and the team. Whether warming up the team before each meet, leading stretches, or rallying the younger age groups with encouragement and energy, their presence was felt at every race. They set the tone not just for performance but for unity—creating a team culture that was inclusive, supportive, and focused. Their quiet confidence and commitment inspired the rest of the team to give their best, regardless of the course or conditions.

Of course, one of the standout highlights of the season was hosting our very own Inter-Schools Cross Country event here at Clifton. Our course boasts natural beauty and variety, offering runners a true cross country experience. It begins with a long, steady climb through the forest, where pacing and grit are essential. From there, runners enjoy a flowing downhill stretch toward the dam, opening into a more technical section that winds through streams, bridges, and narrow turns. The route then climbs again as runners cycle back up the bike track before curving around to complete the full loop—a rewarding blend of effort, focus, and flow. This unique course embodies the spirit of cross country running. The runners from the five visiting schools commented on the beauty and challenge that the new course provides. We are so grateful for all the hard work that has gone into setting this up, as well as to Elvis and his team for maintaining it for us. We hope that the children will continue to run the course throughout the year, as this type of cardio fitness does wonders for the preparation of all sports and more than anything, is good for the soul! 

We also held our Inter-house Cross Country event, with every child from Grades 1 to 3 and the Senior Primary taking part. The afternoon brought vibrant house spirit and energetic encouragement from the sidelines. Whether racing for points, personal bests, or just the joy of finishing, the event was a celebration of community and effort.

Cross country at Clifton is about more than just the stopwatch. It’s about resilience, pacing, and supporting one another up every hill and across every finish line. We commend our cross country team for their commitment, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the season. A particular note of thanks goes to our captains, whose leadership and encouragement set the tone for a unified and determined team effort!