Primary school students in Dubai will have the opportunity to fine-tune their fitness ahead of the 30×30 Dubai Fitness Challenge with a virtual 1km time-trial.
The initiative, organised by Dubai Affiliated School Sport Association (DASSA), will run from October 1 – November 12, and is open to all year 3-6 students – and their parents – of DASSA member schools.
Niall Statham, Head of PE at Hartland International School and Vice Chairman of DASSA, described the Challenge as a great opportunity for students looking to maintain their competitive edge during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Unfortunately the pandemic has led to the postponement of DASSA’s leagues and events for the whole of term one. The 1km virtual challenge gives students a chance to represent their school and compete against their peers in an innovative, fun and safe way,” he said.
Mr Statham also explained that students will be able to participate both at school, and at home.
“Children attending school will be able to clock a time during PE lessons. Students who are distance learning will still be able to participate remotely, although their time must be backed up by a smartphone or smart watch.”
In addition to bragging rights, students finishing in the top three in their age-category will be rewarded with some coveted silverware, and the now all too familiar virtual awards ceremony. U8, U9, U10 and U11 will have their own leaderboards, with a boys and girls division in each.
Entries must be completed on foot by running or walking, with no treadmill entries accepted. To register for the 1km Challenge, students should speak to their PE teacher.
Times must be verified and submitted by a parent or teacher, depending on if the Challenge was completed at home or in school. Entries are free and parents are also encouraged to jump on board and submit their own time!
- To follow the Challenge, stay tuned to Gulf Youth Sport where we’ll be hosting the live leaderboards and reporting on the top performers.