Crawford International Lonehill College hosted the Inter-Crawford Sports Festival 2026, welcoming more than 600 young athletes from across South Africa and as far as Kenya for three days of high-energy competition and connection.

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Participating schools included Crawford Bedfordview, La Lucia, North Coast, Pretoria, Ruimsig, Sandton, Kenya, and the host campus, with learners competing in tennis, chess, soccer, hockey, netball, and basketball from March 22 to 24.

Head of sport and event organiser, Kelsey Thompson, described the festival as a resounding success.

“We’ve been hosting the Inter-Crawford Sports Festival from March 22-24, and it’s been a spectacular event, with all eight ‘Crawfords’ from around the country and international from Kenya competing. We’ve had all the excitement of tournament-style play, and here on the final day, everyone is playing their last matches. So well done to everybody.”

The festival not only showcased sporting excellence but also reinforced the sense of unity within the Crawford network.

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School principal Dimitra Adramitoglou highlighted the event’s origins and purpose.

“The Inter-Crawford Sports Festival started a few years ago as a way to bring our different schools and communities together.

“Sport creates a spirit of camaraderie among children. With about 650 athletes participating, it’s about making friendships, learning teamwork, supporting one another, and growing together.

“It also creates a sense of belonging to something bigger than just one school.”

Crawford International Kenya, deputy principal for sport and outreach, Kizito Wafula Okumu, and Vincent Onguso Kegwaro, the deputy principal of the middle school, praised the competition and the opportunity for cultural exchange.

“We are excited to be part of this year’s festival. This is our third edition, and we are enjoying every bit of it. The level of skill has been very high, showing how well teams have prepared,” said Okumu.

“Most importantly, our students get to mingle, network, and build friendships across different backgrounds. Sport is truly a unifying factor.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Watch: Thrilling moments from the Inter-Crawford Festival at Crawford Lonehill, as athletes from across South Africa and Kenya showcased their talent, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Head of sport Kelsey Thompson reflects on a successful three-day tournament celebrating unity and excellence. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #Fourways #Sports ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Kegwaro echoed these sentiments, commending the organisation and sportsmanship on display.

“The tournament has been amazing. The level of competition has been very high, and students have enjoyed making new friendships. The organisation has been top-notch.”

As the final matches concluded, Crawford International Sandton was the overall winner of the 2026 festival.
Crawford International Pretoria is set to host the 2027 festival.

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