With crisp winter skies and the sound of Chapel bells echoing across the grounds, the 2025 Chapel Gift delivered another exciting chapter in one of our School’s most unique traditions.

Tradition on the Run

Held each year to mark the beginning of the Athletics season, the Chapel Gift is a short but spirited sprint around the Chapel of St Mary and St George. First introduced in 2003 by staff member Mr Len Fernandes, the race was inspired by the courtyard scene in Chariots of Fire and has become a much-anticipated fixture on the School calendar.

What sets it apart? The race isn’t timed by a stopwatch, but by the Chapel bell. Each runner’s effort is measured in “bells,” adding a distinctly Guildford character to the event. While construction on Chapel Close led to a shortened course this year, the passion and pace on display were undiminished.

Boys’ Race

Daniel (12St) claimed victory in the boys’ race, setting a strong pace from the outset and crossing the finish line in a time of 1 minute 10.72 seconds, the equivalent of 25 bells. Hot on his heels was Cody (12Sg), followed by James (11He), Saxon (11Wb), Cameron (10Sc), Cooper (9Fr), Ashton (12Be) and Judd (12Ha), each demonstrating resilience, determination and House pride.

Girls’ Race

In the girls’ race, Emily (11Sg) added to her growing legacy in the event, finishing first with an impressive time of 1 minute 21.17 seconds, or 28 bells. She was closely followed by Mikaela (12Be), Milla (8St), Isla (11Fr), Charlotte (9Sc), Mili (12Wb), Portia (11He) and Indeea (11Ha), rounding out a highly competitive and spirited field.

The School That Runs Together

The atmosphere was electric as students surged from the starting line, the sound of Chapel bells ringing out across the grounds. Spectators followed the action as best they could, racing across the grass to catch a glimpse of the finish, though many didn’t make it in time. But the crowd that did more than made up for it, cheering with energy and pride as their House runners crossed the line.

The Chapel Gift may be short, but it carries tradition, spirit and shared history. It’s a race that blends Guildford Grit with joy and friendly rivalry with genuine camaraderie. For those who run and those who cheer, it’s a moment that connects generations of students through a legacy that’s uniquely Guildford Grammar.

Thank you to Father Thomas, Mr Hurley and the Grounds, Sport and HPE teams for helping bring this much-loved tradition to life once again. And congratulations to all runners for giving their all in a race that continues to capture the heart of the School.