Joe Clarke MBE & Chris Hutchings

Gold Star For Cheshire Pupils!

On Thursday 27th April 2017, Chris & Debbie from Apex had the pleasure of spending the day with Joe Clarke MBE, GB Canoe Slalom athlete and Olympic Gold Medallist. As part of the Apex Action Community and Education initiative, Apex sponsored Joe to deliver talks to the pupils of The Berkeley Academy, Wistaston, and Pikemere School in Alsager.

The pupils were mesmerised as Joe talked them through a video that saw him battling against the rapid waters, completing the course in 88.53 seconds to win Olympic Gold.  They were quick to raise their hands to bombard him with questions about his sport, his relentless training regime, and what if feels like to accomplish his dream.

Proudly accompanied by his gold medal, he generously passed it around so that every child got the chance to hold it.  Chris and Debbie were similarly as enthusiastic when Joe allowed them to wear it!

Craig Swift, Teacher of Class 5 at The Berkeley Academy commented:

“Joe was an inspiration to our pupils.   To see a person that they had watched on TV stood in front of them was amazing.  As well as encouraging the children to get active, he also related his story to them, motivating them to achieve in their academic subjects”.  

Debbie Snelson, Commercial Manager at Apex commented:

“…I know Joe was equally thrilled to receive an e-mail from one of the pupils who is now hoping to kayak up the River Tryweryn because he’s heard about Joe’s story”.

“Apex Action” is Apex’s volunteering & funding initiative for school & community projects.  They are always up for a challenge and doing something a bit different!  If you think they can support your project contact Debbie on debbie.snelson@apexconnected.com or call 01948 302066 to discuss further.