Acamis Cross Country: why you should start running competitively this year

By Cadence Elfassy

Last month, from November 15th to the 16th, the annual Cross Country ACAMIS took place in Chengdu, a highly anticipated and action-packed competition displaying inter school community and many individuals banding together for a purpose; healthy competition in the greenery of China. Over 135 representatives from a total of 13 schools attended, while supervised by over 20 qualified coaches there to support the spirit of cross country.

ACAMIS is hosted by a different school each year, each individual faculty and campus pitching in to create an unforgettable event. This year the hosts were no other than Léman International School Chengdu, providing an opportunity for students from RCHK to travel not only beyond their comfort zones but also to a new, exciting place.

In RCHK, school spirit is something that is celebrated and held highly, whether it be a Primary-wide assembly or a group of representatives running their hearts out across the country. But how does competition and spirit encourage keeping students healthy and involved in their interests as they go through the MYP and DP phases of Renaissance?

Well, when students are provided an objective to meet, or self-set goals raised on the backdrop of competition and tiring exercise, they are simply more motivated to work hard to achieve these. The effect of this? More and more students find themselves running in their free time; encouraging stamina and, believe it or not, bettering their mental health.

Seeing the colour green is proven to release endorphins, and practicing cardio-style stamina through running not only is exciting, but relieves stress. What does this mean? It's simple. By providing a range of sports competitions, RCHK is encouraging its students to get outside, do something they’re interested in when more and more schoolwork is assigned, and become more healthy; building lean muscle and stamina through jogging or sprinting.

In conclusion, ACAMIS 2024 was an absolute hit, and an opportunity for healthy school spirit that encouraged healthy living in the process. So what are you waiting for? Join competitions that interest you this year, and you may find your mood lifted.

Thank you for reading, and happy running!