The 12th annual Beat the Bells Run à TASIS was a remarkable event that brought together 30 members of the community on the morning of May 4. Participants embarked on a challenging journey from the campus to Lake Lugano and back, aiming to complete the course before the Chiesa di Sant'Abbondio bells rang at 10:00. TASIS Creative Specialist Graham Pearsall emerged as the champion for the third consecutive year, finishing the grueling course in an impressive 28 minutes and 22 seconds. This event not only showcased the physical endurance of the participants but also highlighted the strong community spirit at TASIS.
Le Beat the Bells course, designed by former Director of University and College Counseling Greg Birk in 2010, spans just under seven kilometers with 340 meters of elevation change. This year, 16 out of 30 participants successfully 'beat the bells,' with notable performances from Levi Gras ’27 and Sébastien Lill ’33, who broke their own records from the previous year. The event also saw participation from four Elementary School students, demonstrating the inclusive nature of the run. The success of the event was made possible by the efforts of Athletic Director Masa Yo ’04, Associate Athletic Director Alex Zanecchia ’02, and numerous volunteers, underscoring the collaborative environment at TASIS. The achievements of the runners and the seamless organization of the event reflect the school's commitment to fostering a healthy and active community.