SPECTATORS are being invited to cheer on dramatic boat races on the River Ouse in York this weekend.

Athletes from the University of York and Lancaster University will compete in rowing races starting from near Lendal Bridge tomorrow. The events begin at approximately 1pm, culminating with the headline race between the first teams at around 2.30pm. A riverside drinks reception is also being held at York City Rowing Club boat house next to Lendal Bridge from 1pm.

The rowing race will be a highlight in the students’ War of the Roses battle this weekend, which will see the two universities competing in over 25 different sports, including rugby, hockey, tennis, archery, judo, clay pigeon shooting and even frisbee throwing.

A crowd of 2,500 is expected to attend the Rugby Men’s 1sts, which will take place in the York City Knights ground, Huntington Stadium, this evening.

Professor Brian Cantor, vice-chancellor of the University of York, said: “The Roses tournament is a festival of sport which is always greatly anticipated and enjoyed by students, alumni, guests and the wider York community.”