The Pocklingtonian 2017/2018 | Page 29

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS// Adam Swaine Fifth Year pupil Adam Swaine won two silver medals at the British Independent Schools Ski Championships held in Les Deux Alpes over the holidays. He was among more than 350 talented young skiers who travelled to the French resort for the annual competition, held in challenging weather conditions after an unusually heavy snowfall. Adam braved strong winds and poor visibility to win silver medals in both the U16 Slalom and U16 Giant Slalom competitions – a particularly remarkable achievement given that he has limited opportunity to ski. He said: “This year the competition had to be moved down the mountain due to the massive amounts of snowfall and the harsh weather.” “The snow was not the best for racing but benefitted me well. I’m really pleased.” Adam was particularly determined to succeed because last year he was leading the grand slalom event until a fall ended his run. He vowed then that he would learn from his mistake – and came back stronger this year as a result. Samuel Perry Following 6 years of training, Samuel achieved his Black Belt in Taekwondo. For this he had to complete a personal written statement, learn the history of taekwondo including the interpretation of each patters, learn the Korean language for all techniques together with undertaking sparring and pattern work. Following achievement of his Black Belt, he has moved on to become an Assistant Instructor teaching adults and children the art of taekwondo. NEW ARRIVALS Many congratulations to Charlotte and Hugh who are pleased to announce the arrival of Oliver George Mortimer, born at 10am 24th October 2017 weighting a lovely 8.25lbs. Also the safe arrival of baby Betty Joan Sargeant born 26th June 2018 to Anna and Denis (pictured right). And finally to the Ward family on the birth of Katerina Esther Ward (Katya). Born 5th September 2017 (pictured far right). THE POCKLINGTONIAN 27