On Wednesday, December 4th, the school field was alive with laughter, cheers, and the unmistakable spirit of competition as Year 9 and 10 students gathered together for the much-anticipated Junior Picnic Day. This annual event marked a perfect way to end the academic year with a mix of fun, teamwork, and unforgettable memories.
The day kicked off with students arriving in their P.E. gear, ready to compete against other form classes in a wide variety of activities. From the iconic Kiwi staple of gumboot throwing to sack races and many more activities, every form class brought on their A-game, eager to earn points and claim the coveted bragging rights to the ultimate goal: The house shield for Picnic Day.
“The sack race was hilarious! Watching everyone fall over while trying to hop to the finish line was definitely the highlight of my day.” said Beni Coomes, a Year 10 student from 10ZRNB.
One popular activity was the puzzling maze challenge. Where students attempted to find the route to get from A to B in an array of hula hoops with one attempt each and without stepping on a hidden mine, further heightening the tension and stakes.
“It was Dynamic, but so much fun.” said Tsukasa Kitago, a year 10 student from 10MALK
Of course, Picnic Day wouldn’t be complete without the iconic tug of war competition – a high-stakes battle of strength and strategy between every single junior form class. Everyone was given the chance to compete, but it was the finals that drew the loudest cheers of the day. In the Year 9 cohort, 09REIS emerged victorious after a fierce face-off with 09THAB. Whilst in Year 10, the combined form classes of 10MALK & 10RAYK took home the win, besting the combined form classes of 10DAVU & 10LIAU in a thrilling showdown.
“It felt amazing to win the tug of war! Everyone in our form classes strategised together, and our team-work really showed in the end,” said Tsukasa from 10MALK, grinning ear to ear.
While competition was fierce, the day was also about bonding with others and celebrating the end of a successful school year. “It was so nice to relax and just switch off,” shared Yillin Qi, from 10AIRT.
This event truly captured the essence of the Macleans spirit, with students and teachers alike embracing the dozens of events on sight such as jump rope and tossing balls, regardless of the outcome. Picnic Day proved to be an unforgettable experience.
As the day wrapped up, the field buzzed with energy, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment. Junior Picnic Day 2024 wasn’t just a day of activities; it was a celebration of teamwork, determination, and the joy of being part of the Macleans community – a day that will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the year.
Written by Chiron Yung, edited by Emma Li & Aaron Huang
Photos taken by Emma Li
