Skiing
Rydal Penrhos team excel in competition
The Rydal Penrhos ski team has been on a remarkable journey over the past half-term, achieving outstanding success in both the Welsh Schools U12 National Ski Championships and the ISA National Skiing Championships.
At Rydal Penrhos, we are proud to have a thriving skiing provision. Twice a week, our enthusiastic ski team travel to Llandudno Snowsports Centre and practice their slaloming skills on the dry slope that overlooks the historic seaside town.
This practice has proven invaluable for our pupils, not just during overseas ski trips to incredible snow sports destinations like Italy and New Hampshire, but also in competitive settings against other skiiers from schools near and afar.
Over just the first seven weeks of this school year, the Rydal Penrhos ski team have tasted triumph at two high-profile championships; a true testament to their dedication, skill and enthusiasm.
Welsh Schools National Ski Championships
At the Welsh Schools National Ski Championships in Llangrannog, held on the weekend of Saturday 14 October and Sunday 15 October 2023, Rydal Penrhos' ski team displayed incredible talent and determination.
The Rydal Penrhos 'A' team, consisting of Wilfred Jones, William Oliver, Camilla Simmons, and Phoebe Jewsbury, emerged as Welsh National Champions, a title they earned by defeating some of the best schools in the country. Their remarkable performance sees them etch their name into the sporting history books of the school as the latest team to taste glory on a national scale.
Individual successes were also aplenty, with Camilla Simmons and Wilfred Jones claiming first place awards and Phoebe Jewsbury, William Oliver, Connie Ratcliffe and Ethan Pollard earning podium finishes in their respective events.
Away from the slopes, Rydal Penrhos pupils also made the most of their time in Llangrannog, creating wonderful memories during beach games at Poppit Sands and coming together for an enjoyable pizza and movie night. These experiences strengthened the bond among the team and spirited them towards success.
Congratulations to our national U12 champions, and to all our medal winners. A special mention also to Hannah Pittaway and Harrison Simmons who, despite just missing out on silverware, made us proud with their excellent performances.
ISA National Skiing Championships
Before their impressive performance at the Welsh Championships, Rydal Penrhos pupils showcased their skiing skills at the ISA National Skiing Championships in Hemel Hempstead.
In a highly competitive field of 125 talented skiers, the Rydal Penrhos 'A' Team set a high standard, finishing third overall in the Junior category. The phenomenal Wilfred Jones secured an exceptional 1st place in the U10’s category. Not far behind, William Oliver claimed an impressive 9th place, closely followed by Camilla Simmons in 10th.
The Rydal Penrhos B Team – namely Casey Lord-Langton, Carys Winfield, Sebastian Lennon and Henry Savage – also displayed their mettle on the slopes, earning strong results with commendable performances.
We congratulate all the participating pupils for their exceptional performances at the ISA National Skiing Championships. Their achievements are a testament to their sporting enthusiasm and the outstanding support provided by their teachers and instructors.
As we look ahead, we are eager to witness our young skiers continue to shine in upcoming competitions and set new milestones in the exhilarating world of skiing. Rydal Penrhos is immensely proud of the achievements of its ski team and looks forward to more success in the future.