The first University Golf Match, or Varsity Match, was played between Oxford and Cambridge on March 6, 1878 on Wimbledon Common, courtesy of the London Scottish Golf Club. The match was played by four singles over eighteen holes, using the holes up method of scoring, and Oxford won convincingly. The first Amateur Championship was played in 1885, so the Varsity Match can justifiably claim the distinction of being the oldest established amateur event in golf.

The teams are 10 a side, with 5 36-Hole Foursomes matches and 10 36-Hole Singles matches make up the final result. Also contested the day before the University Match, is The Dinner Match, which sees the two Dinner Blues from each side take each other on to decide which club takes the bill for the traditional dinner which follows every University Match.

We are very fortunate to be hosted by great clubs for the University Match, such as Royal St. Georges, Muirfield, Royal Liverpool, Rye and Ganton in recent years. These clubs have not only allowed us to play the match there, but practise at the course in the preceding week, making for a truly great and unforgettable golfing experience. The atmosphere at the University Match is very special, and seldom experienced elsewhere, as the combination of fierce competition and pride for one’s university, mixed with excellent spirit and team camaraderie create a special experience.

Recent Matches

122nd University Match, Royal Cinque Ports GC, March 2011
Oxford 8 - 7 Cambirdge

121st University Match, Royal Porthcawl GC, March 2010
Oxford 9 - 6 Cambridge

The 123rd University Match will take place at Hunstanton Golf Club on 23 & 24 March 2012