In the heart of King's College London, a storied tradition unfolds each year, bringing together athletes from different corners of campus for a tradition known as the Macadam Cup.
Honouring Sir Ivison Macadam
Named in honour of Sir Ivison Macadam, a KCL alumnus and the founding President of the National Union of Students., the Macadam Cup holds a special place in the hearts of students and faculty alike. Sir Macadam's legacy extends beyond academia; his contributions to the college are commemorated not only through this championship but also through a building at Strand Campus.
A Brief History of the Macadam Cup
The inception of the Macadam Cup dates back to 2004, sparked by an ambitious vision from Michael Champion, the incoming President of the Students' Union. Motivated by a desire to celebrate the unique identity of Guy's, King's and St. Thomas' School of Medicine (GKT), Champion saw the competition as an opportunity to preserve the distinctiveness of GKT amidst a broader push for rebranding.
Champion's vision faced its fair share of challenges. With limited funds and wavering support from fellow executive board members, the realisation of the Macadam Cup seemed uncertain. Yet Champion pressed on, and was determined to see his vision come to fruition.
The Macadam Trophy
Champion discovered a forgotten relic: a dusty St. Thomas' Rowing Club champagne bowl. With inspiration, he restored it, inscribing "Vicant Optimi" – "The best shall win." Supported by the King's College London Alumni Association, the inaugural "Alumni Macadam Cup" was born.
Macadam 2024
This year, the excitement returns as GKT and KCLSU sports teams battle it out on Wednesday 27 March. With over 9 fixtures showcased at the picturesque Honor Oak Park and 3 at various locations around London.
Entry begins at 12:30pm, with the bar opening at 1pm. King's Food will be serving burgers (and vegan burgers!), along with nachos, from 2pm to 7pm.
Here’s a brief rundown of the day:
- 12:00: Tennis — Kennington Park Tennis Courts
- 13:00: Men's Cricket — Astro 2
- 14:00: Women’s Rugby – Rugby Pitch
- 14:00: Men’s Football – Football Pitch
- 14:30: Fencing — The Great Hall
- 15:00: Netball — Netball Court
- 15:00: Men’s Hockey — Astro 1
- 15:30: Squash – South Bank Squash Club
- 16:00: Women's Football — Football Pitch
- 16:00: Men's Rugby — Rugby Pitch
- 17:00: Women's Hockey — Astro 1
- 17:00: Mixed Lacrosse — Astro 2
- 19:00: Trophy Presentation
Find out more here.
We look forward to seeing you there!