A Picture-Perfect Day for the Annual Head of School Run

A Picture-Perfect Day for the Annual Head of School Run

This week, students and faculty took a break on a crisp, sunny Monday afternoon to cheer on participants in the 2024 Head of School Run, a two-mile run/walk event that is part of the yearlong Raven Cup competition among houses. Starting adjacent to the football field, runners raced around the perimeter of the playing fields before finishing on the football field itself.

Head of School Matt Walter officially kicked off the race by firing the starting pistol, and 71 students took to the course alongside faculty and staff. The perfect running weather inspired strong performances from all participants, with St. Hughs House dominating the boys leaderboard and Manor House sweeping the top spots for the girls.

The top three finishers—all from St. Hughs—showed exceptional skill and speed:

1. Avery Howell '28 (1st place, 11:13)
2. Gabe Devaney '25 (2nd place, 11:32)
3. JP Devaney '25 (3rd place, 11:34)

Manor House runners led the way for the girls, each with impressive times:

1. Brooke Marston '27 (1st place, 12:38)
2. Mabel Harlan '27 (2nd place, 13:39)
3. Anna Hutton '27 (3rd place, 13:49) 

Faculty runners also made a strong showing, with Elizabeth Benestead and Michael St. Thomas earning recognition as the top faculty finishers.

Following the race, participants gathered on the football field to enjoy well-earned cold drinks and pizza. Each runner also received a commemorative race shirt designed by Sauroo Park ’25, adding a tangible memento to an afternoon filled with community and a welcome respite from studying for final exams.