Schools have competed in the Stevenage Sporting Futures annual Indoor Rowing Competition, highlighting the determination and exceptional teamwork of the young athletes.

The annual indoor rowing competition took place at Barnwell Upper School on November 26, and showcased the strength, determination, and teamwork of young athletes across the region.

Peartree Spring Primary School took home first place in the primary school competition for the second year running, and The Nobel School and Barnwell School took home victories from the secondary school competition in various age categories.

Connor Moran, partnership manager for Stevenage Sporting Futures Team, said: “This event perfectly embodies the spirit of teamwork, determination, and personal growth.

“Seeing the excitement and effort from every participant today has been truly inspiring.”

Primary school children competed in teams of eight, rowing a combined 2000 meters while swapping every 250 meters while secondary school teams, consisting of four participants, tackled a total of 2000 meters, swapping every 500 metres.

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster, and Nerys Pearce, a multi-talented para-athlete, inspired participants with their presence.

Nerys, a decorated competitor at the Warrior and Invictus Games and a record-breaker in indoor rowing, shared her remarkable story of resilience and achievement.