HSDC is very proud to celebrate the achievements of A Level student Ned Bailey, who studies Geography, Biology and PE at Havant Campus, who recently qualified to compete at the prestigious English Schools Cross Country Championship taking place in Liverpool.
Ned racing at the national championship in Liverpool.
A dedicated and talented athlete, Ned has been running competitively for seven years and currently trains under the guidance of coach Claire East at the City of Portsmouth Athletics Club. His commitment to the sport has seen his performance strengthen season after season, marking him as a standout athlete within both the College and the wider Hampshire athletics community.
Ned’s recent success at the South East England Schools Inter-Counties Cross Country Championship in Chelmsford has been a defining moment in his cross country career. As part of the Hampshire Schools team, he contributed to securing gold for the team! His final position was 3rd for Hampshire and 7th overall, confirming his selection for the national championship in Liverpool!
Reflecting on the race in Chelmsford, Ned said:
“Cross country has always been my favourite running discipline, and I knew a tough course at Chelmsford would suit me as I had to finish in the top five Hampshire runners to have a chance of qualifying.”
At the championship in Liverpool, Ned finished as the 6th fastest Hampshire runner!
Ned’s achievement highlights his individual determination and the College’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting students in both their academic and extracurricular pursuits. Balancing three A Levels alongside a demanding training schedule is no small feat, and Ned’s parents expressed immense pride in his dedication, saying:
“We are really proud of Ned’s self-discipline and dedication. Juggling his A Levels alongside training six days a week is incredible, and his hard work is paying off! He is getting the results he deserves.”
Ned’s journey embodies the excellence, ambition and resilience that is so often championed at HSDC. The College is committed to supporting students in pursuing their passions, whether that’s in academic subjects, creative pathways or specialist sport performance. His achievements are a testament, not only to his talent and work ethic, but also to the supportive environment fostered across all three campuses.
HSDC would like to wish Ned all the best as he continues to improve and hone his running skills!