by Sarah Asuquo
“Dr Edwards, founders. I present to you the Aspire Coat of Arms. This medal belonged to Benjamin Bailey. Aspire class of 1920 and Olympic Silver Medallist for Swimming, in 1924. This medal belonged to Bianca Baker. Aspire class of 1925 and Olympic Gold Medallist for the 400 metre hurdles in 1932. This medal was awarded to Brian Bennett. Aspire class of 1954 and Bronze Medallist for wheelchair tennis in the first ever Paralympics in 1960. And finally, this medal belongs to me, Beverley Banjo. Aspire class of 1993 and Olympic Silver Medallist for the triple jump in 1996. This school has nurtured and educated exceptional athletes. Sport is in Aspire’s DNA. It teaches our students how to be resilient individuals, team players, and hardworking students, prepared to take the world by storm! It’s in our history. Please don’t take that away from these kids.”
The founders looked at each other sombrely. “I can’t – I won’t take away the sporting specialism from this school. It’s too precious,” said Eliza, tearing her agreement.
“Hear, hear,” said another founder, also ripping his agreement. “Sport is at the heart of this institution.”
“I… I… agree,” said Dr Edwards. “These medals are worth a great deal of money and their value will increase with time. However, the stories and achievements behind them are both inspiring and sacred, worth more than any amount of money. In light of their return, I am willing provide additional funding to sustain the arena for another five years. However, we must build a secure cabinet of some sort to ensure they are not taken again.”
“I agree and I will match your five years of funding,” said Eliza.
The founders signed an agreement to fund the arena and sporting initiatives at Aspire Academy, Poplar for another twenty years with a possible extension if the school continued to perform successfully. Breeze and Bella had been listening from the top of the staircase and once the founders left, they raced down the stairs, screaming with excitement and squeezed Mrs Banjo.
“You did it, girls. You saved our school. You saved our arena,” said Mrs Banjo tearfully.
“No, Miss. We did it,” said Breeze.
– 15 –
On the Telly
The following Monday, an urgent, whole school assembly was called at the end of the day.
“Good afternoon, ladies and gents. I’m sure you have heard the news, but I am pleased to confirm that our academy will remain a sports specialist institution and the planned arena closure will no longer go ahead. I am also pleased to announce that I am not stepping down as your Principal and I’m honoured to continue to lead you as a school. Honestly, this is fantastic news and we are very fortunate to be in this position. I would like to thank Breeze and Bella in Year 10 for their outstanding effort to find the stolen medals. You have made history, girls, and you should be extremely proud of yourselves. Please join me in giving them a round of applause.”
Bella slowly stood up, expecting Breeze to join her. Breeze didn’t.
“Why are you standing, Bell?”
“I don’t know. Ain’t that what we’re supposed to do? They’re all clapping for us.”
“Nah, I’m good. Please sit down now, Bell.”
“Fine.”
But it was too late. Just as Bella began to take her seat, Mrs Banjo noticed them. “That’s right, Bella,” said Mrs Banjo. “Breeze don’t be shy. Please stand.”
“Ah, man. See what you did, Bella!” Breeze groaned, reluctantly rising from her chair.
“Thank you, ladies. You may be seated. What a brilliant way to begin our penultimate week of the school year as we prepare for Sports Day on Wednesday. Before I conclude, I would like to play a short video clip from last Friday’s BBC news report.”
Mrs Banjo switched off the lights and the report began to play on the projector. “The medals were stolen over fifty years ago and despite the efforts of the authorities, they were not retrieved,” said the reporter. “However, two 15-year-old students: Breeze Bassey and Bella Balivo of Tower Hamlets, East London, managed to trace these medals and return them to their school. I’m joined today by both girls and Beverley Banjo, Principal of Aspire Academy, Poplar, here in our studio. Congratulations, girls! You must be so proud of yourselves; you’re heroes!”
“Thank, you. Yeah, we’re proud, but mainly we’re just so happy that our school arena won’t be closing down,” said Bella.
“That’s right. I understand that finding the medals has provided Aspire with the funding required to keep the arena open,” the reporter replied. “Why does that mean so much to you, Breeze?”
“Um, because sport is what makes our school so special. So many of us train in that arena and it’s where the whole school comes together for events. Like, we’ve got Sport’s Day next week and things like that. My school life wouldn’t be the same without it,” said Breeze.
“Remarkable. Beverley, one could say that finding these medals was nothing short of a miracle!”
“Yes, they did a fantastic job. I don’t know how they did it, whist being exemplary students and dedicated athletes. We are all very grateful to them. I’m one proud principal.”
As Mrs Banjo switched off the projector, the assembly hall erupted with celebrations. The noise transcended the school walls and for once, Mrs Banjo didn’t mind it.
“Look at your big head on the telly!” Bella chortled.
“I don’t know why you’re laughing, mate. My head ain’t no bigger than yours, darlin’! I can’t believe that we were actually on the telly, though. Mama I made it!”
“Trust! My mum recorded it and everything!”
“Same. My mum did the most! She even called my grandma in Nigeria and I had to speak to her for ages while she spoke blessings over my life!”
“Swear! That’s sweet, though. I’m so proud of you, Breeze. Even though you were so tired and faced some challenges along the way, you figured it out and just did it. You were amazing.”
“Thank you, Bell, but I couldn’t have done it without your help, man. The timekeeping, organisation, and your very detailed plan. We bossed it!”
As Breeze and Bella did the B Squared handshake, they were surrounded by students congratulating them.
“Nice one, girls. I don’t know how I would’ve been able to keep training if we lost the arena. Thank you,” said Jayden. He was followed by numerous students and members of staff praising the girls’ achievement.
Finally, Chanel wanted to express her appreciation. “That was cool, girls. I rate you for that, seriously. Oh, and Breeze — sorry about the whole bag thingy.”
“Thanks, Chanel and it’s all good,” Breeze replied.
“Bag thingy! Wow. So cheeky,” said Bella as she watched Chanel walk away.
“That’s the best apology you can expect from Chanel, Bella.”
“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please?” said Mrs Banjo to a frenzied audience. “Settle down, now… Take your seats… Guys… BE QUIET!” Instantly, the hall was silent. “Just one final thing from me, then you may be dismissed… WHO’S READY FOR SPORTS DAY?”
The students began to chant “A-A-P! A-A-P! A-A-P!” at the top of their voices. Filled with happiness, Mrs Banjo winked at Breeze and Bella, causing her glasses to glow.
Bella’s jaw dropped as remembered the day of the founder’s meeting. “Oh yeah! Glasses!” she said. “Boy, I’ve got something to tell you about Mrs B, Breeze!”
“What? What now? … Here we go.”
– 16 –
Sports Day
The annual Federation Sports Day had always been an electrifying event at Aspire Academy, the most anticipated day of the year. All students from the schools in Homerton, Bow, Leyton, and Beckon, gathered at the Poplar academy’s arena for the day. This year, however, was the most extravagant Sports Day yet. The students and staff of Poplar made a special effort this year: vibrant banners adorned the stadium, groups of dancers performed to the rhythms of the steel pan band and the canteen staff provided a barbecue with enough food to feed a small village! T
he recent solving of the infamous ‘stolen medal case’ and the media coverage that accompanied it, brought nationwide attention to this Sports Day, with reporters from local and national news outlets in attendance. Oga D and Uncle D collaborated to make takeaway goodie bags for all competitors. The day was even sponsored by KA drinks, who provided everyone with a free can! Famous Aspire alumni came down to support, and the event was officially opened with a live performance by Brit Award winning duo, Trillz and Skillz.
The field events took place first and it was Bella’s turn to compete.
“Go on, Bella! You got this!” cheered Breeze from the stands.
Bella stumbled as she threw her javelin into the air. She watched in disappointment as it cascaded towards the grass. Sixty-six point three metres was the leading score achieved by Rene, a student from Aspire Academy, Bow, and although this was lower than Bella’s personal best, she knew that she had not given her greatest performance. As Mr Peters measured her distance, Bella had already prepared herself for the worst. “And the final distance is…” he announced, pausing to create tension. “Sixty…” he deliberately delayed, “… seven point one metres!”
Bella calculated and realised that her score was the furthest distance. “Oh my gosh! No way! I won! I–”
“YOU WON!” Breeze bellowed, pouncing on her best friend.
“I WON!” Bella replied as they rolled on the ground.
There celebrations were paused by Breeze’s observation. “Everyone’s staring at us, Bell,” said Breeze.
“Who cares!” they cried simultaneously, continuing their merrymaking.
“That was so close, Breeze. I thought I wouldn’t do it.”
“I knew you would, Bell. Come on! My bestie and that!” Breeze began to dance, “Go best friend! That’s my best friend!”
“Thanks, Breezy! Damn, I need to sit down,” said Bella, returning to the stands. She slouched in her seat and said, “Ah, now I can chill! Just sit back and enjoy the show.”
“Lucky you,” Breeze replied nervously.
“Don’t stress, Breeze. You’ll be ok.”
“Well, it’s long jump now and then it’s the racing events so I’ve still got some time.”
Breeze and Bella watched the participants compete. Each competitor was supported by their school with posters, whistles, chants, and cheers. Traditionally, the students from the host school were last to compete in each event and it was now Jayden’s turn.
“Look, Jayden’s up next,” said Breeze.
“Mm-hmm… And why did your eyes light up when you said that? Huh?”
“No, they didn’t.”
“Yeah they did.”
“No – they didn’t.”
“Aww.”
“Stop, Bella.”
“Ok, I’ll stop… for now.”
Jayden looked over at Breeze as he waited to run. Breeze mouthed the words ‘good luck’ and gave him a smile of encouragement. He nodded back at her and then his focus swiftly shifted to the sandpit. He started to clap rhythmically above his head, beckoning the crowd to join in. The crowd’s claps were a wave of support that flowed through the stadium and mirrored his heartbeat. Impulsively, his feet propelled him, increasing in speed as he approached the take-off point. He leaped into the air; his legs rotating as if he was riding a bicycle. As he started to incline, he stretched out his legs as far he could, and his heels hit the sand.
Jayden turned to the commentator awaiting his result. “10.58 metres”. Once he realised that he had finished in second place, Jayden leaped up and starting rapping ‘U Can’t Touch This’ by MC Hammer and did the ‘Shuffle Dance’ towards the stands.
Chanel was unimpressed. “What is he doing? That’s so cringey,” she said.
“Allow it, Jayden,” said Ade.
“You lot ain’t ready for them tunes there, innit, Breeze.”
“Come on! Hammer’s a G!” she replied.
“That’s embarrassing,” Chanel sneered.
“Whatever, Chanel. Nobody cares about what you think,” said Jayden.
Chanel was surprised by Jayden’s response. She frowned at him as he walked towards Breeze. He sat down beside Breeze and the noise of the crowd was drowned out by her words, “Well done, J.”
“Thank you, Breeze.”
“I thought that the National Champ for long jump can’t listen to MC Hammer?”
“Who said that foolishness?”
Breeze tilted her head and replied, “Err, you.”
“I know, I know. But you showed me different, B. There’s no point trying to fit in with the crowd if it means you lose yourself. I deeped that when you said it. I get it. You were right, B.”
“I’m glad you see what I was saying. You don’t need to act no different, J – you’re cool just how you are.”
“Was that a compliment?”
“Nope,” Breeze sharply replied.
“I swear it was, Bella?”
“It defo was.”
“Oh, you two are annoying,” said Breeze.
“I’m just messing with you,” said Jayden. His self-assured demeanour swiftly subsided and he was filled with nerves. “So, um, Breeze, I… I–”
“You all right, J?” she said.
“Yeah, I’m good. I was just thinking, well not just thinking. I’ve been thinking… Would you like to go for dinner sometime, maybe Nando’s, get a little chicken and that?”
“Yeah, that would be nice. I’d like that.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah.”
“All right, cool. I’ll text ya… or call or… yeah.”
“Ok then.”
Bella stared and them as they stared and each other. Jayden felt Bella’s glare and composed himself.
“Anyway, I should go and check on the man dem. Good luck, Breeze. I’ll be watching from the side of the track. Go and body the ting! In a bit, girls.”
“Thank you, J. See ya.”
“Later, Jayden,” said Bella.
Breeze watched Jayden as he walked away until her eyes met Bella’s, peering at her intensely.
“Aww,” Bella sighed.
“Shut up, man.”
“You two are so cute.”
“Ain’t nothing cute about me.”
“So sweet,” Bella continued.
“Your mum’s sweet,” Breeze scoffed.
“Your mum’s sweeter. Your mum’s so sweet that they call her brown sugar!”
“Oh yeah? Well your mum’s so sweet that — that — yeah, you won that one, Bell.”
The girl’s amusement was disrupted by an announcement through the tannoy speaker. “Would the representatives for the female 100-metre sprint from each school, please make their way to the starting line. I repeat, women’s 100-metre sprint to the starting line. Thank you.”
“That’s you, Breezy.”
“Bell… I’m scared.”
“Breeze, come on. We’ve been training for this day. You’re ready for this.”
“I don’t know, Bell. Tanya would have beaten me at the heats if it wasn’t for my trainers. They’re in my bag… a part of me wants to change into them.”
“Seriously? Why are you so worried about Tanya? Focus on yourself! Breeze, remember how you felt after you won that race. Do you really want to win by cheating… again?”
“No, I don’t want that. It’s just… everyone expects me to win. What will they say if I lose after my last victory?”
“Since when did you start doing things based on what other people would think of you? Look at how you helped Jayden be true to himself, you need to take your own advice. You know what’s right, Breeze. Don’t lose that for nobody.”
“You’re right, Bell.”
“I always am,” Bella jested. “If you’re gonna win this thing, Breeze, do it the right way: fair and square.”
“That’s right. And if I don’t win, I did my best.”
“Exactly! Now you’re talking. If you did you best…”
“Big up my ches
t.”
“Come on! Say it again!” said Bella, standing in exhilaration.
“If I did my best, big up my chest!” Breeze repeated.
“That’s it. Now hurry up, they’re waiting for you.”
Breeze knelt at the starting line and looked over at Tanya who was beside her. “Good luck, Tanya.”
“Thanks, Breeze. You too.”
Breeze looked towards the finish line whilst she waited for the shot of the starting pistol. The sounds of the arena became blurred as she began to think about Bella’s pep talk. “Do your best, big up your chest,” she murmured. Her eyes caught the glance of the caretaker, seated in the stands. He gave her a thumbs up and she smiled back at him. For the first time, she could see his name clearly written on his cap and read it out:
“Lance… Lance! Is that you?” she whispered to herself. His face lit up as she realised who he was, and he nodded. Breeze was elated and the realisation that Lance had always been there, so close by for all these years was the ultimate boost of encouragement that she needed.
Mr Peters raised his pistol and called out, “On your marks.” Breeze positioned herself and looked down at her hands. “Get set.” She raised her back and looked up ahead at her goal. “GO!”
Breeze’s felt a rush of energy shoot through her body as Mr Peters pulled the trigger. Her attention was fixed on her lane and she was unaware that Tanya was by her side. She soon gained momentum and her speed accelerated rapidly.
“Come on, Breezy!” yelled Bella from the stands.
Before long, Breeze was considerably ahead of her opponents. Breeze crossed the finish line in 14.92 seconds, winning the race and exceeding her personal best.
“Yes! Come on, Breezy!” Bella screamed, running to meet Breeze at the finished line. “Go best friend! That’s my best friend!”
Breeze lay on the track, overwhelmed by her achievement.
“That’s how you do it, B!” said Jayden as he helped her stand up.
“Thank – you – guys. Thanks – so – much! I – can’t – believe – it,” Breeze panted. Suddenly, Breeze remembered seeing her old friend. “Lance!” Her eyes began to search through the crowds when she saw Lance, standing across the stadium. She winked at him first this time and he winked back before leaving the arena.
