Newcastle University

It was a fantastic weekend for Team Newcastle’s skiers at the BUDS (British University Dry Slope) Championships held at Hillend, Edinburgh. For the 2^nd consecutive year Newcastle University dominated the competition and retained their title of BUCS Dryslope Champions.

In the main men’s slalom event there was a gold, silver, bronze combination for Newcastle – the first time in Newcastle’s history. Performance scholars Benn Hall, Matthew Bruton and brother Peter Bruton took the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd positions respectively.   Benn Hall rounded off a great day with a second gold in the men’s giant slalom. Unfortunately Matthew Brutons ski broke at the start gate and Peter Bruton crashed out preventing more podium finishes for the trio in this race.

After a long wait Newcastle University also secured podium positions for the snowboarding squad.  Snowboarding captain and Elite Athlete Squad member Peter Tupper came second and claimed silver in the men’s giant slalom while Newcastle’s GB representative Ivy Taylor took gold with a fantastic effort in the women’s giant slalom event.  Ivy also finished in the top 3 of the slope style event – which is one of the main non-BUCS events that takes place at the same time.

A total of 78 BUCS points were amassed over the weekend where there was over 800 competitors competing from all round the country, making it one of the largest events of its kind in the world. It was a real team performance with many team squad members making it into the top 30 in their respective competitions, picking up several BUSC (British Universities Snowsports Council) points on the way. The team’s next BUCS event will be held at Easter at the Alpe d’Huez in France, where Team Newcastle will defend their title of Alpine Champions.

If you are interested in coming to study at Newcastle University and would like to know more about skiing and snowboarding at Newcastle then please contact Fraser Kennedy, Performance Sport Manager, e-mail: F.E.Kennedy@ncl.ac.uk or Tel: 0191 222 7224