FOUR Thomas Hardye School students were winning finalists in an indoor rowing event, held as part of the Dorset School Games.

The event, which took place at the Littledown Sports Centre, was timed to coincide with the arrival of the Olympic Torch in Bournemouth.

The rowing challenge, using rowing machines familiar to those in fitness centres, was part of a wide range of sporting activities involving schools from across Dorset.

Representing West Dorset, the Thomas Hardye girls – Year Nine pupils Margi Chitty, Tara Chittenden, Beany Briggs and Natalie Govier – rowed 2012 metres in relay form. In addition to their victory, Chitty won the individual girls’ competition, completing 500 metres in 1min 55.4secs.

Chittenden said: “It was exciting to be taking part in these games, especially in Olympic year. We were very proud to represent West Dorset and be successful at our event.”