Support York in Roses 2011: Friday 13 to Sunday 15 May
As summer approaches, the campus prepares to host Roses 2011, Europe's largest inter-university tournament. Taking its inspiration from the series of bloody civil wars that took place between the houses of York and Lancaster in the fifteenth century, the annual tournament pits the two universities against one another in over 25 different sports.
York’s students are determined to recover the Carter James Cup, named after the two men who created the first tournament in 1965 – Lord James of York and Sir Charles Carter, of Lancaster.
The weekend is coordinated and run by a dedicated committee of students. Sam Asfahani, York Sport President, commented: “Roses is a unique experience, where the whole of the York community gets behind our student athletes. The weekend is geared towards spectators and designed to showcase the very best in university sport”.
This year, there are enhanced opportunities for spectators to enjoy the tournament, including the rugby 1sts match at the York City Knights ground on Friday evening, and a riverside drinks reception in York on Saturday as the boat races reach the finish line. The tournament’s winner will be announced at the closing ceremony on Sunday in Central Hall, which promises to be more spectacular than ever, including music, pyrotechnics and performances from student societies.
Roses Boat Race Riverside Drinks and Canapé Reception
Saturday 14 May, York City Rowing Club Boat House (Lendal Bridge)
1pm–3pm Drinks and canapés
Join the excitement at the finish line to watch the final stages of the boat races. The races begin at approximately 1pm, culminating with the headline race between the first teams at around 2:30pm.
Roses Drinks Celebration and Closing Ceremony
Sunday 15 May, central campus
4.30pm–6pm Drinks reception in the Berrick Saul Building (opposite Central Hall)
6pm–7pm Closing Ceremony (Central Hall)
You are invited to celebrate the climax of the weekend’s activities. Drinks will be served in the new Berrick Saul Building, and your free ticket includes priority reserved seating at the spectacular closing ceremony, where the Roses 2011 winners will be announced.
Alumni, guests and friends of the University are encouraged to enjoy this festival of sport. The events are free, and you can register here.
You are also invited to buy tickets to watch the rugby match on the evening of Friday 13 May. The match will take place at the York City Knights ground in Huntington, just outside York. There are various seat prices, including an option for groups of alumni to reserve an executive box.
Please book tickets for the rugby and direct enquiries to the Students’ Union.