ELITE athletes proved that ‘This Girl Can’ in a cross-sport challenge.

Players from the Great Britain Softball and Rounders England teams competed in games of each sport to tie in with Sport England’s campaign to increase female participation in sport.

Players took to the field on Sunday at Farnham Park Baseball and Softball Complex in Farnham Royal for the inaugural event, with elite and junior players showcasing their talents.

They competed in a game of rounders and a game of slowpitch softball, with both teams victorious in their own sports.

Chairman of South Bucks District Council, Cllr Duncan Smith, was on hand to present the trophies to captains of both teams – Claudine Snape for GB Softball and Helen Blencoe for Rounders England.

Rounders England CEO, Alison Howard, said: “The softball v rounders challenge was an ideal opportunity to showcase the elite aspect of both sports.

“The Rounders England under-19 and senior squads were eager to take on GB Softball and to receive training and tips from some of the country’s best softball players.

“We were lucky to have good weather for the duration of the event and everyone who attended contributed to the buoyant atmosphere.”

BaseballSoftballUK Joint CEO Jenny Fromer said: “The softball v rounders challenge went really well and included all the elements that we had hoped for when the idea was first raised: the showcasing of women athletes, a competitive atmosphere but with games played in a spirit of great friendship and collaboration, good fun for both the players and the spectators – and sunshine!

“Speaking personally, it was a pleasure to be involved in an event that celebrated women in sport.”

Anyone interested in rounders can visit www.roundersengland.co.uk and for information on softball visit www.baseballsoftballuk.com.