Seventeen pupils and four staff members took on the inaugural Race the Sun challenge on Sunday, walking 50km from Lulworth Cove to Bryanston School in a demanding test of endurance against the setting sun.
The day began with a 4am meeting at Bryanston School before the group travelled to the start point at Lulworth Cove. Throughout the route, walkers were supported by Mr Vincent and Mr Perkins, who drove ahead to meet the group at five checkpoints, providing opportunities to resupply on food and water.
The 17 pupils, from B, A3 and A2, were praised by Duncan Curry, Head of Outdoor Education, for their positive attitude, which they maintained throughout the gruelling 13-hour walk. Mr Curry, Mr Welford and Mr Bryce accompanied the group for the entire route, navigating tricky terrain and difficult road crossings while keeping everyone together and safe. Mr Ricketts joined for the first and final legs despite managing a foot and knee injury.
The challenge was marked by numerous moments of support. Mrs Thornton walked alongside the group from the 5am start at Lulworth Cove to the first checkpoint in Wool at 7.45am. Mr Jones brought his family along for a 7km stretch between Bere Lodge and Bere Regis.
Further encouragement came at Milton Abbas, where Mr Deketelare met the walkers, while Mrs Deketelare surprised the group with ice creams at Winterborne Stickland. Pupil Joe K also joined briefly on his bike for part of the route.
The group arrived back at Bryanston at 6.15pm, having walked for over 13 hours at a strong pace, successfully beating the sun on its journey across the sky. The day finished with a celebratory barbecue on the lawn of the Head’s house.
Commenting on the day, Duncan Curry, said: “The event was not about winning, it was not about the destination, it was about the wonderful journey with an incredible group of pupils and staff.”
