Pupils getting set for dream Olympic role

WHEN they pass through the guard of honour they will be moving at a more leisurely pace than when the action begins.

So children from Beeslack Community High School should get a good look at the likes of Sir Chris Hoy and Usain Bolt when they welcome the athletes to the biggest sporting event on the planet.

The Midlothian school is one of just two Scottish secondaries chosen to greet the stars in London at the Olympic Games.

Pupils will form a guard of honour at the start of the Athletes’ Parade as the world’s top sportsmen and women make their way to the opening ceremony on July 27.

Eight first and second-year pupils from the school will be among 2000 youngsters flanking a procession of up to 10,500 athletes from the Olympic Village to the Olympic Stadium while holding lanterns and banners they have created to support one of the 204 competing nations.

First-year pupils Ricky Kane, Aidan Rickis, Abby Wighton and Rebekah Cathcart along with second years Thomas Clouston, Matthew Keith, Joanna Hunter and Kyra Smith will represent Beeslack.

The school’s close working relationship with Selelekela High School in the Soweto township in recent years has prompted the Penicuik pupils to carry the colours of South Africa.

Joanna and Kyra said they were delighted to be involved.

Kyra added: “We are really looking forward to seeing the new facilities in the Olympic Park and possibly seeing some famous athletes.”

The pupils will also get the chance to tour the Olympic Park and see some of the Games venues before the opening ceremony kicks off.

They will be accompanied by PE principal teacher Gill Pye and depute headteacher John Ryan.

Mr Ryan said: “The kids are excited about it already.

“It’s a good time for the school, especially with the Olympic torch in the school grounds on June 14.”

Mrs Pye added: “It’s a tremendous honour for the school. It’s giving our pupils the opportunity to be part of the biggest show on the planet.”