A pupil who achieved 10 grade nine results in his GCSEs this year has said running provided balance alongside his academic studies.
Alex Flaherty from Bradford Grammar School (BGS), who runs for Bingley Harriers, began his time at the independent school in the junior school. As a cross country runner, Alex has represented Yorkshire at a national level multiple times and secured numerous county titles.
“I’m so glad all my hard work paid off,” said Alex. “Running has really helped me to clear my head and relax during my studies; I’ve always enjoyed running and have definitely improved since I joined the BGS Running Club.
“I’ve definitely tried to stay motivated during lockdown. I’ve been going out running four times a week and have even taken my mum out with me – though I’ve had to change my pace for her!”
Running has really helped me to clear my head and relax during my studies – Alex Flaherty, pupil, Bradford Grammar School
Mike McCartney, running coach at BGS, said: “Taken in isolation these are obviously an amazing set of GCSE results. But what is even more remarkable is that Alex has managed to combine his academic studies with his commitment to the school’s cross-country team.
“Alex is part of a fine tradition in distance running at BGS, following in the footsteps of the Brownlee for instance. At a time when it would be understandable for a young athlete to perhaps put a bit less effort into training, Alex has not let up.”
Olympic athletes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee are both former pupils at BGS.
Alex will be staying at BGS for his A-levels in chemistry, maths, history and Latin.
The school has been sharing stories of success since Thursday when GCSE results were released. This year, 56% of its pupils were awarded grade 9-8, 79% achieved grade 9-7 and 100% achieved grade 9-4.
