05-07-2025
Pupil at Thundersley school breaks running record that's stood for over 40 years
A pupil at a school in Thundersley has broken a number of running records, including one that had stood for more than 40 years.
Year 7 student Josh Viner-Wood, at The King John School, has accomplished impressive feats on the track.
In the National Cup last week, Josh dominated the 1,500m race, setting a new record with a time of 4 minutes 53 seconds, surpassing the previous record by more than 19 seconds.
At the Castle Point and Rochford District Athletics Championships, he bettered his own record, breaking a 13-year-old district record.
He even shattered the school record by 29 seconds, a record that dates back over four decades.
PE teacher Mr Webb said: "We are all so proud of Joshua's performances, it really is an incredible achievement."
Josh's winning times continue to decrease, with his recent 4 minutes 43 seconds at the Essex County Championships earning him a gold medal and a new county record.
Headteacher Dan Steel added: "We have no doubt that he will have an exciting future ahead of him."