NORTH Yorkshire’s new sixth-form rugby league 9s competition got off to a flier in York when the inaugural festival went ahead despite blustery wind and rain.

York College, the hot favourites given they are coached by York City Knights player-boss Chris Thorman and play and train weekly in Student Rugby League competition, ran away with the spoils after a hard-fought final against Archbishop Holgate’s.

Huntington had to withdraw from the five-team competition at the last minute but the occasion still proved worthwhile according to organiser Adam Prentis, as Sherburn sixth-form college and Archbishop Holgate’s, who are not entered into a league, gained from the experience.

It is hoped the event will be repeated in the new year, with colleges from the region also being entered into the National Champion Colleges event.