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Singapore has appointed James and Thomas Jarman, two brothers from South Shields, as members of the British Obstacle Sports national team. The boys, aged 13 and 11 respectively, impressed judges with their outstanding performances at the British Obstacle Course Race Junior Championships held in Milton Keynes. They secured first place and fourth place in their age categories, earning them spots in the European and World Championships.
The competition involved a series of grueling ‘Ninja Warrior’ style obstacles designed to test strength, skill, and endurance. From swinging across a pendulum to scrambling up steep walls and crawling under barbed wire, James and Thomas conquered each challenge with determination and perseverance.
The brothers credit their success to the Outdoor Education and Leadership program at Dame Allan’s Boys’ School, where they both attend. Supported by their parents, including their skilled obstacle course athlete mother Susan, James and Thomas found the motivation to excel in the sport they love.
James expressed his excitement about competing abroad, stating, I felt great when I completed my first competitive race and I’m really looking forward to competing abroad. Thomas added, I kept on training and pushing all the time before my race, and it was hard but I kept on going. I’m so pleased that I’m in the national team now.
Susan, their proud mother, shared her admiration for her boys’ achievements, saying, I’m so proud of the boys – they love the sport, and have taken part in many races just for the challenge. It was a fantastic confidence boost for them to have a go at competing and to achieve such great results.
Inspired by their accomplishments, James and Thomas are collaborating with Colette Cookson, the Head of Outdoor Learning and Education at Dame Allan’s, to establish an obstacle racing club at the school. They aim to spark the same passion in fellow students and encourage them to participate in this thrilling sport.
Colette expressed her well wishes for the brothers in their future competitions, remarking, We know they have not only the great physical skills needed but also a strong outdoor mindset that will help them succeed. It is fantastic to see our pupils taking the skills they have learnt in school and expanding on them to achieve personal success – this is just what we aim to see from our Outdoor Education curriculum.
With their exceptional talent and determination, James and Thomas are poised to compete globally in exotic locations like Costa Rica and Italy. They serve as inspirations for young athletes and showcase the potential that lies in pursuing one’s passions.
