With summer just around the corner, that can only mean one thing at TIFS – the Bonnie Challenge is nearly here! Every year, Year 7 pupils take on the challenge at St Boniface Down, running the course while representing their house. The fastest boy and fastest girl might earn themselves a place on the special Bonnie Challenge boards in the canteen, where their names and times are displayed for everyone to see.
We spoke to pupils who have already completed the challenge, as well as some Year 7s who are preparing to take part for the first time.
Looking Back: What Did Previous Pupils Think?
Niamh in Year 8 said she didn’t really enjoy the Bonnie Challenge last year. She didn’t make the top three in her house, but she wasn’t too bothered about that. When asked if she would do it again, she quickly replied, “Absolutely not!” However, she is looking forward to watching this year’s Year 7s take part. She described the challenge as being easy but difficult due to the hill you have the run up.
Freddie in Year 8 said he didn’t enjoy it as much as he expected because the course was longer than he thought it would be. Although he didn’t make the top three, he knows Edward and Danush from Rubeum, who made it onto the leaderboard. Looking back, Freddie thinks the challenge was actually easier than he expected and wishes he had pushed himself a little harder.
Indi in Year 8 had a more positive experience. He enjoyed the challenge and said he would definitely do it again if he could. He completed the course in around ten minutes, although he admitted he spent some of the time picking blackberries along the way!
Quinn in Year 8 also enjoyed the challenge. He narrowly missed out on the top three, finishing fourth in his house. Quinn said he wasn’t too worried about where he finished because the challenge is really about doing your personal best. He found it easier than he expected and is looking forward to watching the Year 7s this year.
Summer in Rosea had one of the most successful Bonnie Challenges. She finished in the top three and was only eight seconds away from making it onto the canteen leaderboard. She said she was really proud of her achievement and would happily do it again. Summer is excited to watch the Year 7s this year and cheer on pupils such as Indy, Sinead and Esme. Although she found the run difficult because of the heat, she felt great afterwards.
Danush in Year 8 had a very different view. Although he achieved an impressive time of 3 minutes 26 seconds, placing in the top three and earning a spot on the canteen board, he said he found the challenge tough but was really proud of himself for completing it and getting such a great time!
The Year 7s Prepare for Their First Bonnie Challenge
We also caught up with some Year 7 pupils who will be taking part this year.
Thea and Molly are both feeling excited about the challenge. They said their plan is to run most of the way and walk near the end if they need to. Their biggest worry is having lots of people watching them, but they are looking forward to getting involved. They also said they plan to decorate themselves with painted dot patterns to support their house.
Olivia and Tiana are also excited to take part. They expect the event to be lots of fun. They plan to run together and support each other during the challenge. Their biggest concern is getting tired before the finish line. To show their house spirit, they are planning to paint handprints and patterns on themselves.
What Makes the Bonnie Challenge Special?
The Bonnie Challenge is one of TIFS’s most famous traditions. It gives pupils the chance to challenge themselves, support their house, and take part in an event that many pupils remember long after they leave school. Whether pupils are aiming for a place on the leaderboard or simply hoping to cross the finish line, everyone can take pride in giving it their best effort.
Good Luck, Year 7!
It is clear that opinions on the Bonnie Challenge are mixed. Some pupils love it, some find it difficult, and others enjoy it simply because it is something different. One thing everyone agrees on, though, is that it is a memorable part of life at TIFS.
Good luck to all the Year 7s taking part this year – and who knows, maybe a few new names will be appearing on the canteen leaderboard very soon!
By Skyla M-S, Lara H, Yasmin B, Romei A-C, Poppy G, Beth S & Polly T
