The annual Granite City Challenge is back, with students from Robert Gordon University (RGU) and the University of Aberdeen prepared to battle it out to prove their mettle.
With Aberdeen having won the previous four events the onus will be on RGU to break the hold their city rivals have over the event, now in its 21st year.
On Wednesday, March 14, the students will compete in over 30 different events between 9am-6pm, which includes men and women’s hockey, lacrosse, football and basketball.
In addition to team sports, individual events such as rifle competition, swimming, mountain-biking and trampolining will also take place.
Eilidh Paterson, RGU’s president of sport and physical activity, commented: “RGU is proud to be hosting this year’s Granite City Challenge. The day will see RGU and University of Aberdeen sports clubs competing in over 30 matches and will be a great showcase of some of the best sporting talent Aberdeen has to offer.
“I am very proud of all of the RGU sports clubs, it takes drive and dedication to balance full time study alongside training and competing in your chosen sport. On 14 March our teams will put all of their hard work and training in to practice in the hope to be the University that comes out on top.
University of Aberdeen’s sports president, Emma Lister, added: “Granite City Challenge is one of the biggest sporting days across both RGU and Aberdeen University with 36 fixtures taking place throughout the day.
“Even though all participants have that one goal in mind, it is an amazing day to be a part of, whether you’re supporting or competing.
“It is filled with pride, great spirits and competitive sporting banter. Organising this event and working with Eilidh has been great fun and I know that I can’t wait for the 14th March to see it all happen and be amongst the hustle!”
With RGU hosting the event this year, the majority of events will take place in university facilities, such as RGU Sport’s hall and pool, Garthdee pitch and Cults Tennis Centre. However, some events will be hosted externally or on University of Aberdeen grounds.
Both teams will continue to wear rainbow laces as part of their ongoing support for inclusion within student sport.