School holidays went out with a flick of a cape and a sweep of a broom for 12 Bowral children recently.
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Young Harry Potter fans gathered to compete in the first Bowral Quidditch Cup.
In true Harry Potter style, the young wizards were sorted into two houses – Gryffindor and Slytherin by 'the sorting hat'.
The children donned capes, mounted their brooms and flew onto the field for an hour of magical fun.
Until the young wizards actually learn to fly, the rules have been adapted somewhat to account for their 'muggle' ways.
Whilst riding their broomsticks, competitors aim to tally the most points by the end of the game.
The magic was made possible by Bowral mothers Kirstine McKay and Janet Ottoviano.
“I think there’s a small window of opportunity when their imagination is in full flight,” Ms McKay said.
I think there's a small window of opportunity when their imagination is in full flight.
- Kirstine McKay
“We want to support their love of reading, running around, imagination and magic.”
Mrs McKay had advice for parents that wanted to organise their own Quidditch cup.
“Read the book to get ideas and be as creative as you can within your own capabilities,” she said.
“Make sure you’re having fun as well.”
Each team comprised of 3 chasers who score goals using a 'quaffle' ball, 2 beaters use smaller (and soft) balls called 'bludgers' to hit chasers.
If chasers are hit with a bludger whilst in possession of the 'quaffle', they must drop the ball and run back to touch their own goal before re-entering the game.
And the final position was the seeker, their job is the catch the snitch. a small, mischievous little golden ball on wings (in this case a very fit and obliging dad).
The game ends when the snitch is caught.
The young wizards were treated to magical field refreshments and potions in keeping with Harry Potter's world with every flavoured (jelly) beans, 'jumping' chocolate frogs, dragon roasted popcorn, 'exploding' pumpkin pasties, candy wands and bubbling potions to drink.
At the conclusion of events the young wizards roasted marshmallows over a smoking cauldron and buzzed around declaring it was 'the best day ever'.
And who won the cup?
It was a draw – first game to Slytherin, second to Gryffindor. Looks like there will have to be a decider!