Competition
Competition
02 July 2011 12:00AM
Competition
Well, it’s that time of year again. Sports Day, which usually is the sign that we are coming to the end of yet another academic school year. It seems to be a day of mixed emotions, as some kids can’t wait to participate whilst others hate the dreaded day. As did I, those many years ago! Oh shame on you Anna. Well, the fact is I didn’t like it. Never was the sporty type, more of a performing arts girl myself. It’s a day when some parents make a fool of themselves and happily join in. Thank heavens they don’t have a grandparent’s race. Do they?
So, my little granddaughter excelled. Much to nanny’s delight, she won the race in spite of sustaining an injury before. Grazed, bleeding and bruised she refused the offer to withdraw. She focussed, took a deep breath and went for it. Some said she flew! Bless her. Just shows what a little determination can achieve.
Do you know some schools are cancelling sports day now for a variety of reasons, most of which I hasten to say, I disagree with? Another discussion, not time now!
The next day I was very impressed with my visit to Harrogate Ladies’ College. The picnics on the lawn which preceded sports day, an arts exhibition second to none, the strawberries and cream, pimms, on the lawn in the afternoon- not literally of course- was most enjoyable. Though I did turn around quickly and collide with a rather dashing, most handsome teacher. Strawberries everywhere, cream down his jacket. Ha ha! Only joking! It truly was a beautiful day and the sun stayed out.
More impressive was the Speech Day, held the following morning in the elaborately decorated sports hall, serenaded by the most excellent girls’ choir. Speeches. The presentation of academic awards. The headmistress’ report. What a lovely day.
I’m in no doubt that I would recommend this college, which certainly turns out ‘ladies.’
In spite of the fact that most girls were graduating with excellent qualifications, the collective opinion of the day was one which I regularly portray in my own school talks. We all have gifts and talents. We all have our childhood dreams and visions. Keep rehearsing! Keep training! Keep believing! Keep going, and if at first you don’t succeed, try and try again.
Congratulations to all the girls who leave Harrogate Ladies’ College next week. Go out into the world and make a difference.
Best wishes
Anna
