Christ Church staff take on Trinity Cambridge at 2025 Sports Day

The day started off with several downpours and the skies were grey, but this did not dampen our excitement about taking part in the upcoming battles to retain our trophy from the previous year.

When our Cambridge friends arrived, we met with them in the Undercroft bar to allow them time to relax after more than two hours on the coach – and to allow the Christ Church competitors to size up who they were playing against! 

Following tea and biscuits, one of our custodians, Paul Whatley, took a number of Cambridge staff out into Tom Quad to give them a brief history of Christ Church. Once this was finished we went to Hall where we were served with the most delicious selection of hot and cold foods to get our day off to a great start. After dinner, our Cambridge friends were treated to a brief talk in Hall by Jenny Narramore, Deputy Hall Manager, followed by a tour of our great Tudor kitchen, courtesy of our Executive Head Chef, Chris Simms.

After lunch, it was time for a blissful walk through the Meadow, across Jubilee Bridge, to the Liddell sports ground. By now the dark skies had cleared and the Sun was shining: it was surely an omen!

The games began. There were three teams of bowlers playing on the tennis courts whilst the rounders team played out on the sports field. After two hours of play, we had a break during which we were provided with sandwiches and cake. It was during this break that the heavens decided to open, but only for five minutes. Once we were fully refreshed, we went back out to our respective games to continue play.

By the end of the games, despite their valiant efforts, the Christ Church rounders team lost to Cambridge. Our bowling teams, however, had emerged victorious in two of their three team games overall, resulting in a draw overall. In the case of the draw, the rules stipulate that the team that won in the previous year retains the trophy. This meant that Christ Church were declared the winners!

We then headed back to College to freshen up. Canapés and drinks were served on the Freind Room terrace, followed by the most delicious three-course meal with associated wines and port in Hall. Speeches were read with Cambridge gracefully handing the trophy once more back to Christ Church.

A great day was had by all and it was lovely to see so many people from both Cambridge and Christ Church taking part in this joyful event that has been going on for many, many, years. Thank you to everyone who made the day so enjoyable.