£53,892 raised in Challenge Week 2025 to support sport at York
Posted on 25 March 2025
York Challenge Week has become an annual event that brings together students, staff, alumni, parents, and friends in a shared mission to celebrate sport at York while raising crucial funds for their clubs.
It’s made even more special this year as sports clubs prepare for our annual sports tournament against Lancaster, Roses.
Donations to Challenge Week help fund essential resources such as coaching, transport, and equipment, ensuring that current and future students can take part in University sport.
This year 17 clubs took part in the fundraising week, setting themselves a range of incredible challenges including a 12-hour ‘Dawn till Dusk’ Archery shoot, the Yorkshire Three Peaks walk for Women’s Cricket, a handstand marathon for Gymnastics, and a world record attempt for the longest continual row on an erg by the Boat Club.
For many students, sport is more than just an extracurricular activity; it is a core part of their university experience. Mia, a student and member of York Ballroom and Latin Society (YBLS), shared how the club has shaped her time at York and what Challenge Week means to her:
“I wanted to try something new for my third year, and I fell in love with Ballroom and Latin. Since then, I've been part of the most amazing dance family. It's brought me so much happiness.
“Dance feels like an antidote, like a medicine. If I'm overthinking or worrying about things in life, I'll go to dance. It's an escape from university work or whatever else is on my mind.
“Challenge Week is really important for YBLS because it raises money to subsidise competition fees, transport, and other costs. Without these subsidies, many students—especially those from lower-income backgrounds—might not be able to take part. Everyone should have the opportunity to do sport, regardless of financial circumstances.”
Throughout the week, family members, alumni, and supporters left messages with their donations, including:
“I started mountaineering in 1973... it's a fabulous way of life. I have never regretted a moment, except perhaps when I was occasionally terrified!”
“My daughter was introduced to Cricket at University and has now found such a love and passion for the sport. From never playing to being President - very very proud, thank you for making a place for her in your club!”
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the incredible donations from 1800 members of our community, York’s sports clubs can continue providing opportunities for students to thrive, compete, and support their wellbeing while studying at York.
A huge thank you to everyone who made York Challenge Week 2025 a success!
For more information on this year's Challenge Week, visit the Challenge Week website.