60 years of Roses: The history of York vs. Lancaster sporting rivalry

This weekend sees University of York take on Lancaster University in the Roses tournament, one of the highlights of our uni calendar each year. In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the tournament, here’s a look back at the history of the sporting rivalry between the two universities.

A historic rivalry

The assembling of the University of York (symbolised by the white rose) and Lancaster University (symbolised by the red rose) is regarded by many as one of the largest inter-university sporting competitions in Europe.

The name is derived from the War of the Roses, between the House of Lancaster and the House of York in the 15th century. This rivalry is evident elsewhere in sport, and it is well known to be attached to the Roses match in cricket, between Lancashire CCC and Yorkshire CCC. The first cricket match to take place between Lancashire CCC and Yorkshire CCC took place in 1867, so the rivalry is a historic one.

Origins of the tournament

The first ever Roses tournament between the two universities took place in the 1960s, with the first official tournament taking place on 15th May 1965. This tournament took place over several days, and the events involved rowing, table tennis, mixed field hockey, relay race, and even tug of war.

Across the 1970s, Lancaster went on to win in more years than York, notably with an away victory in 1977. However, York went on to win in 1978 and 1979.

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By the 1980s, there were 30 sports involved in the tournament, ranging from golf and rowing to football and croquet. Across the decade, Lancaster won six times and York four times. The tournament celebrated its 21st anniversary in this decade, where Tug of War was resurrected for the occasion. The event took place as a mixed event with four men and four women on each team.

The tournament in the 1990s and 2000s

York went on a historic three-win streak at the start of the 1990s, and secured an away victory, which was only the second time since 1978 in Lancaster.

The next stage in the life of the Roses tournament saw the festivities and celebrations that went alongside it grow in size and popularity, just like the tournament itself. The tournament weekends in the 90s involved a beer tent, several club nights, and even a York vs. Lancaster bungee run in 1997. Fundraising also became an important staple of the tournament, with thousands of pounds being raised for different charities over the years.

Despite losing in 2000, York returned stronger in 2002, when they beat Lancaster by a single point. The development of the digital age also led to some developments within Roses, with large screens now being available for more and more people to be able to watch the matches.

Looking ahead to the 60th anniversary this weekend

York will be looking to improve their recent record against their rivals, especially on home soil this year, as Lancaster have won the last three tournaments.

The tournament will be broadcast by both universities’ television stations, and both radio stations will also be covering it. Be sure to follow along, or watch some of the games in person, if you can!