Rotary Sponsors Schools Athletics

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL SCOTTISH SCHOOLS INDOOR ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS: 3^rd and 4^th FEBRUARY

Excitement and anticipation are growing as the date of the Scottish Schools Indoor Track and Field Championships approaches.  On Wednesday 3^rd and Thursday 4^th February athletes from schools all over Scotland will gather at the Emirates Stadium in Glasgow for this major sporting event. More than 1,400 athletes from over 200 schools will take part in track and field events at the championships. This event follows on from the outstanding success of the 2015 Championships also sponsored by Rotary International.

Frances Fegan, President of the Scottish Schools Athletics Association said ‘We are delighted that Rotary International is supporting the event again this year.  The support from Rotary clubs throughout Scotland is very encouraging for everyone involved in sports and school communities.’

Together with other Rotary Clubs, the Bridge of Allan and Dunblane Rotary Club is encouraging support for the event from schools in their areas.  Dr Mary Fraser, President of the Bridge of Allan and Dunblane Rotary Club, said ‘Rotary is all about supporting communities. We’re delighted that Rotary is supporting Scottish schools athletics. We see it as part of what we do…supporting our community and our schools. We also see it as an investment in the future of our young athletes.’

Dunblane High School has entered the Championships in previous years, with some notable successes in the 1500 and 800 metres and in hurdling.  But there will be entrants for the field events as well as the track events, and they are optimistic about bringing some medals back.  Students are selected on the basis of their achievements against set time and distance standards.  Only the best get through.

There is a real buzz about competing in the Emirates Stadium, and being matched with schools from all over Scotland. A Dunblane High School competitor from last year’s Championships said:  ‘It’s great competing in such a superb stadium; the atmosphere is electric, and its good to be competing against the best young athletes in Scotland. It’s a marvellous two days of competition, with the added bonus of fun and friendship.  We’re all really looking forward to it.’