Saturday was a glorious day in so many more ways than one. The weather was glorious (reaching some of its highest temperatures yet!), with the sun bathing our young and eager athletes in a golden glow. ORA students at Balliol and the Queen’s college headed to the world-famous Oxford University Sports Centre on the Iffley Road – the very place, in fact, where Sir Roger Bannister ran the first 4-minute mile – where they followed in Sir Roger’s footsteps by taking to the track themselves in a variety of events.

Herculean efforts ensued in the 100m sprint, testing pure speed an determination, while steadiness and calm were key to the egg and spoon race – an addition to the ORA Olympics that we feel was lacking from its ancient counterpart. The sack race was a particular highlight – made to look like a walk in the park by some of our more talented jumpers! Balliol were the winners of the sports day, taking home prizes and pride after a very energetic day.

Congratulations to athletes of both sides. When the final medal had been awarded, and the last prize dropped into eager hands, it was back to their respective colleges for showers all round and a relaxing evening of social programmes.