Talented young athlete Oonagh McManus competed in the Pentathlon GB British Schools Modern Biathlon in Bath on Sunday 20th March and was delighted to bring the national bronze medal home to Oldham.
Oonagh, a Year 7 student, was proud to represent Crompton House in the prestigious national run/swim competition, which saw her go head-to-head against 80 other promising young athletes from across the country, and come third overall in the Under 13’s category.
In order to qualify for the British Schools Modern Biathlon, Oonagh competed in her first ever run/swim event – the Northern Schools Championships, held at Edge Hill University in January. On her debut, she won the gold medal and collected well over the 2000 points needed for a place in the nationals.
Arriving in Bath hopeful of a top 10 finish, Oonagh’s steely focus saw her go on to achieve a personal best in the 1600m race, followed another personal best in the 100m freestyle swim – securing herself a spot on the winner’s podium.
Oonagh’s love for athletics began in primary school, where she would regularly compete in cross country races at Chadderton Hall Park. She soon began training with a running club and at the same time, discovered a passion for swimming during her weekly swimming lessons. She now has a dedicated training programme which balances running swimming sessions, with her academic studies.
To honour her recent achievements, Oonagh has been nominated for a special Head Teacher’s Award. Mr Karl Newell, Headteacher & CEO of Crompton House School and Multi Academy Trust said:
“The staff and students of Crompton House are incredibly proud of Oonagh’s success at the National Modern Biathlon Championships. Her achievement was a culmination of a huge amount of hard work, commitment and determination. Oonagh is a fantastic role model whom we hope will motivate and inspire other young athletes to follow in her footsteps.”
