Track and field enthusiasts had plenty to be excited about at YCIS Shanghai Century Park Campus this past week, which held their annual Secondary Sports Day. Students raced around the track, hurled shot puts, and jumped their way through the morning, barely pausing for lunch before the afternoon matches of handball and basketball.

Participating in the sports activities, and with the accompanying beautiful weather, proved to be a great day for students, with excellent sportsmanship demonstrated by all. Some new school records were set and some even broken. Year 11 student, Charles, ran an amazing 11.93 seconds in the 100m, with his brother Etienne, three years younger, finishing the race with an incredible time of 11.96 seconds. Year 7 Anita broke the 800m record for her year level with a time of 3.03 minutes. Over at the shot put throwing circle, the shot seemed to fire out of Year 12 Albert’s arm and soar to a new record distance of 9.79 metres. While the experience of new records being set is exciting, all were inspired by the younger Secondary students who demonstrated their courage by competing in events above their year category!

Following the event, each House (team) was tasked with writing a short reflection on the day’s activities. The students drew upon some important aspects that continue to positively affect them, even after they left the sport’s field.

“We were victorious because on that day, every single student gave it their best shot, and we were one unit, cheering on our team members, and strengthening our school spirit,” wrote Green House Captains Leo and Karyn.

Naomi and Toby, Captains of Red House, recounted an important realisation their house had made during the event: “Trying our hardest no matter what – that is what real dedication and teamwork is all about.”

The organiser of this annual event, Ms Emma Mighall, Head of Physical Education at Century Park, couldn’t agree more with the mature wisdom of those House Captains. "Sports Day fosters a competitive spirit among our students. This competitive attitude, along with their Character Education development, helps prepare students for their future university applications, and their roles in the workplace."

This event, sure to be remembered by all involved, is a fine example of how the sports programme at YCIS benefits the students not only by providing important physical exercise, but also by building their appreciation for camaraderie and competitive spirit.