Jack from Giggleswick School has earned international recognition after representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc, Spain, securing an impressive sixth-place finish in the U20 Classic Up-and-Down race.
Jack, a sixth-form pupil at the North Yorkshire-based independent school, was selected by UK Athletics to join the GB & NI squad, following a series of standout performances in national-level competitions. The Championships, held from 25–28 September, brought together the world’s most promising mountain and trail runners to compete across challenging alpine terrain in the Spanish Pyrenees.
Jack’s result places him among the top mountain runners globally and marks one of the highest individual finishes by a British athlete in the U20 category at this year’s event. The result is even more incredible due to Jack’s age, 17 and in Year 13 at School. This is Jack’s second year of competing for Great Britain, previously running in the European Off-Road Championships in Annecy, France.
Jack’s said:
“I am over the moon with my result at the World Mountain Running Championships, and I can come away content, knowing I got the best out of myself on the day. I feel this has been a testament to the work I and those around me have consistently put in to help me get to this level.
Alastair Scholey, Athletics Coach:
“Jack continues to impress and delight but rarely surprises me these days. His many successes are built on consistency and a recognition that turning up and doing the right work is key to progression. This achievement is on the back of medals and titles on different surfaces in the last couple of years. His example has spurred the success of younger athletes in the school, who have now begun to gather national titles and county vests across track, fell and cross country disciplines. It’s part of the culture of the training group.”
Edward Buck, Director of Sport
“Jack’s performance is a source of immense pride for the school. To finish sixth in the world is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to his courage, resilience, and athletic ability. He has set a powerful example for younger pupils and demonstrated what is possible through hard work and courage”
Jack’s success follows a strong domestic season, including podium finishes at the English Fell Running Championships and a top performance at the National Cross Country Championships. His progression to the world stage underscores the importance of school and club-level support in nurturing future international athletes.
Jack’s result at the World Championship followed on from his success at the Junior Home International Mountain Running Championships in Wales, two weeks ago, where he became the British U20 Mountain Running Champion.
As he returns to his studies, Jack remains focused on future goals, including potential selection for England and Great Britain, this upcoming cross-country season.
Categories: Giggleswick School School News
