Blackwater trio in step challenge

Blackwater trio in step challenge

14 July 2021

THREE teachers from Downpatrick’s Blackwater Integrated College covered the equivalent of walking from Downpatrick to Lake Como in Italy in a recent physical and mental health challenge.

Jonathan Killen, Christopher McClean and Angela Ward competed as The Red Hot Chilli Steppers in the challenge set by the Education Authority.

The organisation started its ‘Jump into June Step Challenge’ at the start of last month, asking staff in schools across Northern Ireland to take part.

The main aim of the challenge was to create a positive impact on aspects of health and wellbeing which included mindfulness, sleep, nutrition and hydration as well as physical and social health.    

The Blackwater team were the overall winners, completing 2,214,404 steps in total.

“We entered the competition for a bit of fun, but then the pupils heard about it and began to encourage and support us,” said Mr McClean. “We realised it was a great opportunity to show them that hard work and dedication pays off.”

The trio are now enjoying a well-earned summer break.