Class of 1985 Reunion Weekend
St Stithians Class of 1985 Reunion: A Weekend of Legacy, Laughter, and Lasting Bonds
The St Stithians Class of 1985 returned to campus for an unforgettable reunion weekend filled with camaraderie, celebration, and heartfelt moments. Over three days, classmates, former teachers, and long-time coaches came together to honour shared memories and the enduring Saints spirit.
Friday: Mountain Biking, Golf Day & Boys’ College Walkabout
The weekend kicked off bright and early on Friday with a 7am mountain bike ride, where a spirited group of classmates took to the trails to start the celebrations with energy and adventure.
From there, the festivities continued with a lively Golf Day, where friendly competition and good humour set the tone for what was to come. Meanwhile, another small group enjoyed a meaningful campus walkabout, taking the time to revisit familiar landmarks including the Chapel, a place of reflection and significance for generations of Old Stithians- and for some, they place they got married. It was a moment to reconnect not only with each other, but with the spaces that formed the backdrop of their school years.
Saturday: The First 8 Rowing Reunion
Saturday delivered a weekend highlight the First 8 Rowing Challenge, where the Class of ’85 boldly took on the 2025 Saints crew in a spirited race. A remarkable opportunity to seize a moment as all 8 of the Class of 1985 travelled from all corners of the globe. To mark the occasion, the group flew in their former coach, Raymond Blake, all the way from Ireland and honoured him by naming a boat after him a heartfelt tribute to a inspirational mentor who shaped their lives. The 1985 Crew won the SA Champs and four of the rowers went on to represent South Africa and compete in the Olympics a testament to the excellence and drive that still shines today.
The celebrations continued into the evening at Higher Ground Restaurant, where the Class of ’85 hosted a reunion dinner with an exceptional turnout. In a rare and heartwarming gathering, 11 past teachers joined the festivities, sharing stories, reconnecting with former students, and reminding everyone of the profound relationships forged at Saints.The atmosphere was warm, nostalgic, and filled with laughter a perfect reminder of the strong community that defines St Stithians.
The weekend concluded on Sunday with a breakfast alongside teachers and a special swimming session by Alex De Leo, who joined in a training swim with the beloved former Biology teacher and swim coach, Judy Dixon. Judy coached at Saints from 1981 to 1985, shaping countless young swimmers many of whom still speak of her with deep admiration. Now at 84 years old, she continues to compete in gala events, embodying resilience, passion, and an unbreakable love for the sport. An extraordinary woman, Judy remains a towering inspiration. Her presence was a stirring reminder of the dedication and heart that define the Saints educational legacy.
A Weekend to Remember
The Class of 1985 reunion was more than a gathering it was a celebration of legacy, leadership, and lifelong bonds. From honouring former coaches and teachers to rekindling friendships forged decades ago, the weekend captured the essence of what it means to be; Once a Saint, Always a Saint!
