Twenty-four teams rise to the tough challenge

THE first ever Kelly Tough Challenge was held at Kelly Preparatory School last week. Twenty-four mixed teams of four, from local primary schools battled round the school rugby pitches carrying a large wooden log before completing the rest of the challenge. It included negotiating the team and their log through tyres, up steep slopes, under hurdles, through a tricky forest track before squeezing under a long cargo net crawl followed by the final challenge, a daunting straw bale wall which tested the teams to their limits before a quick sprint to the finish line. The teams were hampered by drizzle and closing light, but spirits were high and all participants were on top form. They and their supporters contributed to the fantastic atmosphere which was assisted by refreshments provided during the prize giving. Following the success of the inaugural event, it is planned to make the challenge an annual affair for local primary school children. The course was designed and run jointly by members of Tavistock Athletic Club and Kelly Preparatory School sports department whose aim for the challenge is to encourage participation and teamwork in this demanding event. Thanks were expressed to the staff and parents of the participating schools and all who gave up their time to make and supervise the course. The Sporting Award Trophy was taken home by Whitchurch A for demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship throughout the challenge. The First Team Home Trophy was won by Kelly C Team who completed the challenge in 7 minutes and 46 seconds, seconds ahead of Kelly A Team. Third place went to St Peter?s A. Other places were: fourth, Tavistock Primary A, fifth, Whitchurch B, sixth Tavistock B, seventh, St Peter?s B, eighth, Kelly B, ninth, Whitchurch A, tenth, Kelly D, eleventh, St Peter?s D, 12th, Meavy Primary School, 13th Gulworthy B, 14th Lamerton Primary, 15th Kelly F, 16th Mary Tavy Primary B, 17th St Peter?s F, 18th Kelly E, 19th St Peter?s C, 20th St Peter?s E, 21st Lamerton B, 22nd Gulworthy A, 23rd Gulworthy C, 24th Mary Tavy A.