The University of Manchester is proud to have been one of one of the founding members of inter-varsity sport, and last week celebrated the 100 year anniversary of inter varsity competition at a special event.
In May 1919, the newly formed inter-varsity Athletics Board of England and Wales (IVAB), held the first ever track and field event at the University’s Fallowfield campus. In it’s hundred year history the board (now called British University College Sport (BUCS)) has grown inter varsity sport into the huge operation we know today – with 50 sports, 170 universities, and over 6,000 teams competing at all levels from the beginner level upwards.
Students, staff, and alumni heard Vince Mayne, CEO of BUCS spoke about how physical activity in the sector has grown and developed over a 100 years. He highlighted the huge scale of student competitions in the UK and the investments in world class sporting facilities across the sector.
A panel discussion chaired by Alumna and former European Judo Champion Rowena Birch, highlighted the sporting and education journeys of four current students Thomas Lewis (Mathematics 3rd year) Allen Judge (Law with Politics 2nd Year), Jason Hui (Material Sciences PhD final year) and Grace Harvey (Immunology 2nd year).
Vicky Ackerley, Head of Sport & Active Lifestyles said of the event:
“ We are very lucky to have such a rich sporting heritage at The University of Manchester, and to have played a crucial role in the creation of inter-varsity sport across the UK one hundred years ago. This event has enabled us to reflect on previous glory and celebrate how sport in higher education has grown and evolved, and more than ever is contributing to the development and wellbeing of our students”
Find out more about BUCS, about the UoM Sport and about the event, and see just what’s available to you at the University to help keep you active and healthy during your studies.