Let’s Zumba! 

Convent Bukit Mertajam Country Run 2016

Ponytails up, laces tied, faces fresh—the morning sun beamed across the verdant ground where dozens of colourful sport shoes stood awaiting. Exciting chatter took place on the field of Convent Bukit Mertajam as the students, the staff, and the Alumni Committee gathered for the annual Cross Country Run. The students wore their respective house-colour T-shirts along with trackpants; the staff and alumni dressed accordingly in their own sports attire. Just past the crack of dawn, the humidity and grogginess of an early Saturday morning did not stop their enthusiasm as they put on a face of determination, prepared to take on the day.

The students cheered as Zumba instructor, Lisa Lim took to the platform. She briefly explained that Zumba is a fitness programme that involves dance and aerobic elements. Lisa eased the crowd into the routines with some stretching exercises and the momentum gathered as the blend of Latin, Bollywood and international infused rhythms of Zumba kept the participants dancing enthusiastically and singing along to the beat of popular tunes.

“I enjoyed dancing to Sorry by Justin Bieber the most,” said Shameera Nasreen (5 Sains Perdana) who had a pleasant time with her friends during the run. She especially took joy in the moment when she and her friends closed in on the finish line and were about to collect points for their team, Rumah Mutiara.

Other than the cheers and laughter shared during the run, the students also learned the importance of staying healthy. As big of a part books play in gaining knowledge about the world, it does not include the small details that will guide the students through life. A few things they learnt include having fun with people of all ages, getting to know those outside their normal social groups and learning new ways to stay fit.

“Cross country is a compulsory event for all schools to carry out. It certainly is beneficial for the students as it builds their physical abilities and maintains their fitness levels,” said the Principal. She continued, “Besides that, it enhances unity and positive competition among students.”

The music boomed aloud as everyone followed along to the dance moves Lim performed on stage. Though not everyone knew each other personally, they danced together in unison to the beat and delighted in each other’s company. The hot bearing sun hung over their heads and beads of sweat resided on the side of their faces. Through the different coloured T-shirts in the crowd, the uplifted atmosphere marked the start of a united student body.

—By Megan Chang

Special thanks to the sub-committee of Haryaty Abu Bakar and Baby Goh for organising this event.

Lisa in action.

Shameera and her classmates in Bollywood mode. 

Alumni Vice Treasurer Chung Choy Choo showing us how it's done!

The Principal presents Lisa a souvenir while organising committee member Haryaty Bakar looks on.

From left: Ng Hai Yeen, the Principal, PIBG President, Lisa, Baby Goh, Anne Chung, Ewe Lay Khim and Helen Khor.

President Ewe Lay Khim and Vice President Baby Goh with their future Alumni members.