Scotch College

Galloping Gavin

Gone are the days when the neighbourhood lads would play with billy-carts and look for the nearest hill to have some fun! These days it's rollerblading and skate-boarding which capture the interest of the young. And for Year 11 student Gavin Drumm his natural prowess in rollerblading is proving to be a satisfying and profitable passion.

Last year Gavin won the Victorian 16 Years and Under Street Rollerblading Championship and was rewarded with sponsorship for his equipment and competition clothing. At the recent Australian championships, held at an indoor facility in Cranbourne, Gavin finished a creditable third in a field of twenty experienced rollerbladers.

"It was tough competition and a really fun experience," Gavin commented. Gavin has his sights set on competition further afield particularly in the US where international competitions are held. "Competition blading is really growing as a sport and sometime in the future I would like to compete in the US competitions," Gavin added.

Meanwhile back at school Gavin is a member of the school's diving squad where he finds another outlet for his obvious flair for balance and coordination. And it's no surprise that he is also a member of the school's gymnastics squad.

Chess in the Round

Chess is a challenging game at the best of times, let alone against fifteen champions simultaneously! On February 11 Mr David Cordover played 15 games of chess against some of the best talent Scotch College could muster. Boys from the Junior school, Chess Club, Staff, recognised and amateur champions, were quick to find their way to the fountain Atrium area where the simultaneous chess took place during lunchtime.

Mr Cordover played one move on each board before moving to the next and so on. He moved quickly around each board, thinking only for a moment or two. There was enormous interest as students and staff gathered around to watch and support, sometimes even offering advice to the players. Despite some excellent chess being played, Mr Cordover was undefeated at the end of lunch.

This event has created interest in the chess club which meets each Friday.