Otago Boys' Sports Leaders Inspired by Cross Country Star

By Gunha Park, Charlie Ottrey, Eddie Burgess, Ashton | Posted: Thursday October 16, 2025

On Thursday, October 16th, five Year 13 boys represented Otago Boys' High School as school sports leaders at the OSSSA Sports Leaders' Breakfast (Otago Secondary School Sports Association).

We had the opportunity to listen to the guest speaker, professional cross country athlete Oli Chignell, and his advice for young aspiring athletes. One key message we took away from his speech was the importance of not comparing ourselves with others, and another was the importance of discipline. Oli highlighted the lessons he had picked up along his journey to becoming a professional athlete, and the significance of maintaining individuality among others who may try to put us down. We are grateful to have been inspired by his words of wisdom and to have been treated to a great breakfast.