From the moment they awoke on the morning of January 18th the first years were all but uncontainable with excitement at the prospect of the annual trip to Belfast…
For many years now the Elements Tour has been a highlight of the boys first year in the school. Consisting of a wide range of activities, the tour provides a positive focus for the boys upon their return from the Christmas holidays. In the past we have taken groups to London and Cork but following consultation with the Headmaster, Mr Kelly and Mr Egan, this year we returned to Belfast from Monday 18th January – Thursday 21st January.
During our stay we were based at the La Mon Hotel, which is located in Comber on the outskirts of the city. Our busy schedule comprised social, recreational and educational pursuits including the Titanic Belfast exhibition, Crumlin Road Gaol, W5 Science Museum, Air-Soft, Bowling and Ice-Skating. We also be had some very competitive rugby fixtures against Campbell College and RBAI.
The Great Fr. Sheil – in his capacity as Third Line Spiritual Father, rugby expert and Northern Irish native, led the boys through some adventures such as our stop off at Monasterboice and indeed the tour of Belfast. Mr Lumb, Mr Kelly and Mr Wright also joined us at various stages throughout the tour.
This tour offers Elements a chance to enjoy themselves with their friends for a few days away from the rest of the school. Speaking with the older boys about the tour often brings up some great stories and they cannot speak highly enough of the whole experience.