Pentathlon GB’s Jamie Harper inspires pupils at sports day
Pupils at East Coker Community Primary School in Yeovil were treated with a visit by Pentathlon GB’s Jamie Harper who attended and supported the school’s annual sports day, which took place Friday 8th July. The visit was inspired by Bertie Hopkins aged 10 who is the son of Justin Hopkins of legal firm Mogers Drewett which is a sponsor of the Pentathlon GB team.
After giving a motivational presentation and explanation of pentathlon in the morning, Jamie, who is a Sport England TASS-supported GB Modern Pentathlete, observed the sports day and presented certificates.
“It was wonderful to have Jamie attend our sports day,” explained David Pittard, Deputy Head, East Coker Primary School. “Pupils were clearly fascinated and impressed by his talk on pentathlon as well as the equipment he brought along, including a laser pistol and epee. Sports day is very popular at the school, so to have a genuine pentathlete present was very inspiring. Jamie was very generous answering questions on what it takes to become a successful athlete.”
Originally from Cheltenham, Jamie Harper first became interested in sport at a young age. “I can remember my first-ever race,” he explained “I was eight years old and had no idea what to expect when my school staged a combined year three and year four cross-country race. But to my surprise I took an early lead and won.
“It is important that children get into sport at an early age if they are to get the most benefit and succeed, so it was a pleasure to attend the East Coker Primary School sports day and hopefully inspire some of tomorrow’s athletes.”
Jamie Harper has had a busy year so far and was selected for both the 2016 Junior International Open in Drzonkow, and the 2016 Milan Kadlec Memorial in Prague. He is developing a strong reputation in modern pentathlon, which comprises five diverse sports; swimming, fencing, riding, running and shooting.
