Strength, stamina and Olympic spirit

STUDENTS who took part in a marathon sports session in aid of The Christie Hospital have been nominated for a Pride in Oldham Award.

A total of 61 teenagers from Oldham Sixth Form College channelled the spirit of London 2012 when their held their own “Olympathon” in July.

They took part in a gruelling 26 hours, 22 minutes of continuous sport to mirror the 26.22 miles of an Olympic marathon — such as boxing at 3am and volleyball at 4am.

Some of the other events included kabaddi, handball, hockey, basketball, gymnastics, athletics, badminton and volleyball.

Each student had to raise a minimum of £26.22 and the event made £1,946.

The team was nominated by the college’s senior leadership team.

Principal Jayne Clarke said: “The students and staff involved in the Olympathon showed fantastic strength, stamina and team spirit.

“The range of sports and activities they undertook was truly impressive and to have had so much fun along the way, raising funds for Christie’s, was fantastic.

“It’s the type of event that creates great memories and friendships for years to come and everyone involved should be really proud of their efforts.”