October 12, 2018

In the run up to the Tour of Britain coming to Cumbria, Copeland’s Local Committee challenged schools to encourage pupils to record miles travelled by bike during the first two weeks of Autumn term with a cash prize of £500 to spend on PE equipment.

The challenge was put out to those schools who are participating in the 100 Mile Challenge programme, where children are inspired to undertake 100 miles of physical activity during the school year.

St Begas School were the winners, they clocked up 512 Miles from their school of just 31 pupils!

Keith Hitchen, County Councillor for Millom Without Electoral Division said:

“You give St Begas school a challenge and they take it on and run with it, not only have they encouraged cycling, but they’ve found innovative and interesting ways to undertake this challenge making it much more fun. I’m really pleased to hear of their efforts and all of the other ways that they are inspiring their children to be healthy.”

The school and pupils took to the challenge by holding a number of events inc an indoor static bike sprinting challenge, a bike movie cinema where children pedalled whilst watching a movie, as well as Trike races for the smaller children.  

In addition, they held an after school bike-athon, the children managed 131 miles at that event alone cycling 2 mile laps from the school to Mitredale car park!

Miles could be done in and out of school, but the effort put in by the school really inspired the children and their love for cycling.

John Lee, Teacher at the School said:

“At St Bega`s school we are always seeking exciting opportunities for the pupils to participate within our whole school approach to healthy living. Ideas like the Copeland cycling competition are just brilliant and alongside the PhunkyFoods programme and the 100 mile challenge we have been able to regularly participate in activities and assemblies which promote making healthier choices. Winning this prize was a real success for us as a small rural school and we are thrilled that our amazing pupils cycled so hard to win the £500 prize.”