The University of York took a firm grip on their hold as sport’s city champions in this afternoon’s Climbing, taking all nine of the opening Varsity points, as St. John’s were left staring down from the surrealism of the Oakland’s Sports Centre climbing walls to the reality of a 935 – 675 points defeat.
Indeed, on a day when endurance, strength and technique would prove to be vital attributes, it was to be the University of York who prevailed over the challenges set. Individuals from both universities were set twenty tasks in which they were required to climb the peak of the walls in three attempts; primarily ten points were awarded to the individuals who accomplished the job on their first try, seven points for those who did so on their second, and four points for those who managed it in three attempts.
With the B and C teams of the universities in action first, carrying three points and two points respectably, there was certainly plenty to compete for, and equally, ample amount at risk. Neil Harris was amongst the pick of the bunch for York’s C team as they ran out 250 to 214 victors over their counterparts, whilst Gala Bailey Barker, via some fine climbing, helped the B team prevail, with 311 to St. Johns’ 178 points. By the halfway stage, scores had recorded 561 to 392 points, in the University of York’s favour.
As the focus turned to the A team, it was time for the universities’ elite’s to prove their worth, and they didn’t disappoint. Will Steven – 127 points and Joe Barker – 130 points added further control to York’s lead which is turning out somewhat unassailable, whilst Huw Davies – Walter’s and Gregoire Gelin staked a claim of their own with 265 points alone for St. John’s. The latter’s contribution was not to be enough however, as York would see the winning margin stretch even further with a 374 points to St. Johns’ 309 in reply.
The opening victory by the University of York did little to dampen spirits in the opposition camp, as both sides enjoyed the delights of some Terry’s Chocolate Orange, even if it was for St. John’s a mere consolation. Just as climbing isn’t one for the faint- hearted, in fairness, the score line above isn’t, at least for St. John fans.