Alumni Reunion Celebrates Sporting Legacy

September 15th 2025

On Friday 12 September, Alleyn’s welcomed back some of its finest alumni athletes for the 17th annual Last Lap Reunion Lunch, a cherished tradition that celebrates the legacy of David Fournel (Spurgeon’s 1957) and the enduring spirit of Alleyn’s sport.

Held at Alleyn’s, the event brought together alumni from the 1950s and 60s—many of whom were record-breaking athletes in their time—as well as current pupils and staff. The lunch was a celebration of sporting achievement, friendship, and the values that continue to unite generations of Alleyn’s students.

The event was coordinated with care and dedication by Barry Graham (Brading’s 1956), whose commitment to the Last Lap Club and the Fournel Cup has helped preserve and promote the legacy of excellence that David Fournel embodied. Guests had the opportunity to meet and chat to the 2023 Fournel Cup winner, Sasha Howard (Dutton’s 2023). We were delighted Sasha could join the lunch and share her sporting journey at Alleyn’s and beyond. She currently plays in the netball super league for Leeds Rhinos. Barry’s presentation also included a video message from Olympian Eden Cheng (Roper’s 2021), a three-time Fournel Cup winner, who spoke of the honour of being part of the Alleyn’s sporting tradition.

Guests also heard reflections from other past winners including Jacob Brubert (Spurgeon’s 2008), the first ever Fournel Cup recipient for windsurfing, who shared: "Despite the landlocked geography of Dulwich, I was most at home on the water. Winning the Fournel Cup was a great honour and being invited to join the Last Lappers was incredibly special."

Ben Tinkler-Davies (Tyson’s 2016), who represented Great Britain in water polo, added: "Looking back, what stands out most is the incredible support from teachers and alumni. The Last Lap Club and Mrs Fournel’s generosity have inspired so many of us to pursue sport at the highest level."

The lunch was also attended by current pupils, including Isabelle, Will, Millie, and Gabriel, whose achievements in athletics, hockey, and netball are already making their mark. Their presence was a reminder that the spirit of sporting excellence continues to thrive at Alleyn’s.

As the afternoon drew to a close with coffee and a group photo in the Great Hall, attendees reflected on the joy of reconnecting and the pride of being part of a legacy that continues to inspire.

We are deeply grateful to our old and new members of the Last Lap Club, whose stories and sporting achievements enrich the Alleyn’s community year after year.

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