Rachel Jones (TY) writes in detail about the TY Mini Olympics which started on Tuesday, 13th December and finished on Wedneday, 21st December.
Consisting of sprints, javelin throws, wrestling and armour races – the Classical Mini Olympics was an enjoyable (and tiring) event that was enjoyed immensely by all. (Click on thumbnails to open an enlarged version of image.)
As they were based on the Ancient Olympics which started in Greece in 776BC, to honour Zeus (King of the G-ds), we abided by Classical rules (with some adjustments) and only took part in events from the original games. We each gave ourselves Classical names and psyched ourselves up for each event by screaming our names and areas as loudly as possible. Ms Donohoe started each event by shouting “Apte!” (the Greek for “go”), and whoever came first was the winner (as Classical rules only award one winner – second place was deemed to be a disgrace).
On Tuesday 13th December, we all took part in the sprints and the javelin throws. The winners of the 200m sprints were Alice Murphy and Rory O’Neill; and the winners of the 100m sprints were Abi and Paul Ingoldsby. These winners all competed against one another, and the overall winners were Abi and Paul. Liam Hennessey won the javelin throw after beating Seán McGuinness in the final.
On Tuesday 20th December, we all took part in the wrestling matches in the hall. There were three different types – squat wrestling, push-up wrestling and arm tug wrestling. Rory O’Neill and Adina Kilroy won the final of the squat wrestling, Daniel Kelly and Alice Murphy the push-up wrestling and Toms won the boys’ arm tug wrestling final, while Adina Kilroy and Sarah Cunningham were left in a tie.
Finally at lunch time on Wednesday 21st December, we all took part in the prestigious armour races – the most important event of all, where we had to run 200m whilst carrying heavy weights. Abi and Toms were crowned the winners – Abi being the first person to win both the sprints and the armour races, and Toms finishing by running into the fence and injuring himself after tripping over Daniel’s weights.
Overall it was great fun and I would definitely like to take part again.
Rachel Jones (TY)
[Photos: Ms. Donohoe]
Hugh congratulations to Stratford College Classics students who came 2nd and 3rd in the annual Ides of March Quiz in Blackrock College on Tuesday 28th April. Students from schools all over Dublin and further afield participated. Stratford scored an Olympian 41/46 to take second place and 40/46 to take third place. Thank you to Ms. Donohoe and Ms McGill for coordinating this great event.
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Delia Donohoe has been appointed as Permanent Deputy Principal of Stratford College, following her tenure as Acting Deputy Principal since August 2023. This milestone marks her 21st year as a dedicated member of the Stratford community, where she has made a lasting contribution both in the classroom and in leadership.
Speaking about her appointment Chair of the Board of Management Ms. Aoife Cassidy said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Delia as Deputy Principal; she has been a leader and teacher at Stratford College for more than 20 years. During this time, she has served in an acting capacity as Deputy Principal, including over the last three years. She has strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment and dedication to our school community. We have every confidence that she will continue to lead with the same energy, warmth and dedication in the years ahead. We are delighted to formally confirm Delia’s appointment and wish her every success in the role going forward.
A brilliant afternoon for the 2026 incoming 1st years to meet each other and other Stratford students including our current 1st years, senior prefects & their year head Ms. Finnegan. Something for everyone to enjoy!
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