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Over £72,000 raised for student sport and societies at York in Challenge Week 2026

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Posted on Wednesday 18 March 2026

Over £72,000 has been raised by students, staff, alumni, and friends in this year’s Challenge Week to support student clubs and societies at York.
A large group of students stand together with a York Challenge Week banner on Greg's place

Hundreds of students from 25 sports clubs and societies took part in the fundraising week, taking on extreme challenges to raise money for things like new equipment, coaching costs, transport to fixtures and keeping membership costs accessible. 

Across nine days, there were an incredible number of over 2250 people who came together to donate to the sports clubs and societies, and 369 people signed up to show their support as ambassadors. 

Challenges included Caving and Pothole descending the length of the Mariana Trench by rope, Netball club playing netball across York City Centre, a 24 hour livestream from York Student Television, and a 12 hour sail from Sailing and Windsurfing Club, among many more!

Throughout the week friends, family members, alumni, and supporters left messages with their donations, including:

“UYVC was the highlight of my time at York, it makes me happy to see the club continuing to make special memories for a new generation!”

“I was the URY director in 73/74. Delighted to see the radio station still broadcasting.”

“UYHC was my whole uni experience and then some. It gave me friends, a community, and even a job! I will always be happy to give back to the club that gave me such a wonderful time at university“

“This week is about more than cricket. After the loss of one of your own, the way the club has come together shows the true strength of your team. Every challenge this week honours her memory."

The Challenge Week Webpage is open for final donations until 9pm on Sunday 22 March. Thanks to the incredible York community of students, staff, alumni, family and friends, the money raised will help ensure the student life experience is even more enriching for future students.