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SPORT
Amy Lawton (OH 2019)
Hello Tokyo I
t was a case of better late than never for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Held a
year later than planned because of the COVID-19 pandemic, on 23 July, 11,417 athletes from around the world finally had the chance to compete and become a medal-winning Olympian. Among Australia’s team were three Haileyburians vying for a place on an Olympic podium. David Powell, Deputy Head of Mathematics (Year 7 & 8) and Head of Table Tennis at Haileybury City, advanced to the second round of the Men’s Singles Table Tennis but was then defeated by Yang Wang, of Slovakia. “I tried not to have too many expectations heading into the Games because we come up against some of the best countries and best athletes in the world. I knew this would likely be my last Olympic Games, so I wanted to enjoy myself!” says David.
“I think the standout moment for me was that Japan was able to run the biggest multi-sport event in the world during a pandemic. It is a huge credit to their country.”
Thinking back to her sporting days at Haileybury, Laetisha always felt supported. “Even though Clay Target Shooting isn’t a mainstream school sport, I always felt encouraged to pursue my goals and dreams,” she says.
“To simply be part of the Olympic movement is a proud moment for any athlete. The Olympic Games bring thousands of athletes together from across the world and it’s a humbling experience to play a small part in that. Hopefully I can inspire future generations to work hard and follow their dreams of representing Australia on the biggest sporting stage.” Laetisha Scanlan, a Haileybury graduate of 2007, finished fourth in the Women’s Trap Shooting final and seventh in the Mixed Team Trap. “There was a definite sigh of relief when getting on the plane to Tokyo. I was so excited to compete again and to experience another Olympic Games. I competed in Rio in 2016 and placed fifth then, so if the trend continues, I should medal in Paris!” says Laetisha.
David Powell
Amy Lawton, from the graduating class of 2019, arrived in Tokyo with the talented and competitive Hockeyroos. They were undefeated until a quarter-final loss to India ended their medal hopes. “I remember the moment when we lost our quarter-final game. The feeling of being eliminated for a medal chance was absolutely devastating and left me feeling as if it wasn’t real—it wasn’t how our campaign was supposed to end. But as much as myself and my teammates were so upset, I also felt so connected with them,” says Amy. “Doing Sport at Haileybury continuously reminded me how enjoyable it can be. As much as the early Saturday mornings were tiring, they encouraged me to go out and have fun with my mates across year levels. That’s something I now miss every weekend.”
Laetisha Scanlan (OH 2007)
