On Sunday 10th May, the TN community pulled together once more for the annual Terra Nova Challenge. Seventeen brave participants formed a decorated line-up under beautifully blue skies to complete the Challenge: an open water swim, a 7km run followed by a 55km cycle.
Parents of current and former pupils gathered at the serene surroundings of High Lees Woods to dive headfirst – literally – into calm yet cold waters before swimming for around 30 minutes. Families and children supported from the banks, amazed at the bravery of the swimmers and in awe of the beautiful setting. As the horn sounded, the field of happy and invigorated swimmers rose from the water to remove wet suits and don running shoes… although there was time for a coffee around the firepit in between!
A 7km run in and around the foothills of Macclesfield came next. Front runners set a strong speed, while those who knew their limitations ran at a more leisurely pace, able to talk and share stories and updates on the move. The TN Challenge, while somewhat fiercely named is, at its heart, a social event for the full Terra Nova community. This was epitomised by the interruption of the cycling proceedings for an unscheduled stop at a local watering hole.
All intrepid participants arrived safely back at Terra Nova, simultaneously tired and proud, all cheered on by their children, families and staff supporters, before making the most of the Terra Nova Estate with a BBQ in the sunshine on the Sunken Lawn. “Bravo” to all those who rose to the Challenge, and sincere thanks to Mr Kinzelmann for his masterminding of another hugely successful event. We are already looking forward to the TN Challenge 2027!
