HSDC is proud to celebrate the achievements of A Level student Ned Bailey, who studies Geography, Biology and PE at the Havant Campus. Ned has recently qualified to compete in the prestigious English Schools Cross Country Championship, taking place in Liverpool.
A dedicated and talented athlete, Ned has been running competitively for seven years. He currently trains under the guidance of coach Claire East at City of Portsmouth Athletics Club. His commitment to the sport has seen his performance improve 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 career. Competing as part of the Hampshire Schools team, he played a key role in securing team gold. Individually, he placed 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 needed to finish in the top five Hampshire runners to have a chance of qualifying.”
At the national championship in Liverpool, Ned went on to finish as the 6th fastest Hampshire runner.
Ned’s achievements highlight both his individual determination and the College’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting students in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. Balancing three A Levels alongside a demanding training schedule is no small feat. 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 achieving the results he deserves.”
Ned’s journey embodies the excellence, ambition and resilience championed at HSDC. The College is committed to supporting students in pursuing their passions, whether in academic subjects, creative pathways or specialist sports 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 wishes Ned continued success as he develops his running career.
