CROWDS of WHS students, with high expectations of their athletic colleagues, gathered to cheer on the spirited performances of the competitors during this year's sports day held in July.

Fears that the event would have to be postponed due to the heavy rain of the previous week were, luckily, dispelled (rumour had it that Miss Hodgetts had done one of her famous sun dances!)and the grey clouds of the morning gave way to sunshine.

Mr Baird-Parker had his camera at hand during all the races to capture victorious and not so victorious moments.

From the music tent, Andy Wordley played a wide selection of inspirational music which was transmitted from the loudspeaker throughout the races, creating a real gala atmosphere.

Classic events such as the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races were performed with dogged determination by all competitors, every runner being cheered on by their respective houses.

Very competitive tugs of war took place, with each year and house competing against each other - with some sterling performances from year 10. The traditional teacher versus sixth form tug of war resulted in a win for the teachers amidst much good-natured barracking from the crowd.

Other athletic events had taken place earlier in the day and the results from each separate sport were added to those from the main track events to determine the final results.

Overall, it was a triumphant victory for Woodfield house, with the most points attained throughout the whole of sports day, with Sebright house coming close second and Attwood coming an even closer third.

But as most people say it's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts. This sentiment was extremely relevant this year as we witnessed some of the most competitive races yet.

The annual Victor Ludorum prizes were awarded to two of Wolverley's most talented young sportspersons.

Adam Nutland and Amy Rutland have both shown great commitment and effort throughout their time at Wolverley.

By TOM CLARKE