Primary pupils excel at Harborough cross country races

More than 560 children took to the course at Harborough Town Sports Grounds for the Market Harborough primary schools cross-country event, organised by the Learning South Leicestershire School Sports Partnership.

Held just before the autumn half-term break, the event brought together young athletes from across the area for eight races: separate girls’ and boys’ races for pupils in Years 3 to 6.

There were impressive performances throughout the day, but the event was about more than the results. It was a chance for children to challenge themselves, support one another and enjoy competing, and for families to cheer them on from the sidelines.

The races were overseen by junior sports coach Keiran Grundy and long-time local sports figure Gaye Taylor, with support from Harborough Athletics Club officials Jill Roginski, John Thompson and Howard Crabtree. Around 20 secondary-school sports leaders from Welland Park Academy and Robert Smyth Academy also volunteered, marshalling the course, acting as hares and helping runners around the route.

Grundy described the opening league fixture of the 2026/27 season as a “big success”, highlighting both the strong turnout and the encouragement young runners received from their families.

“It was a fantastic race. Lots and lots of schools from Market Harborough took part, and 562 children taking part was our biggest participation so far,” he said.

He also thanked Harborough Town Football Club for the use of its facilities, Harborough Athletics Club, and the sports leaders from Welland Park Academy and Robert Smyth Academy for helping make the event possible.

The next fixture is scheduled for 4 February 2027. After that, the top 12 runners in each age group will be selected to represent the area at the County Championships finals. Team awards and certificates will also be presented to the top three teams in the overall league standings.