By Jed Dixon, Epitome Curator
Derby Day is back this Wednesday. The SU's annual festival of sport is bigger and better than ever, featuring 30 different sports, 79 fixtures, and over 1600 athletes from nine universities.
For the uninitiated, Derby Day marks the end of the winter season, throwing all of Bristol's fiercest university rivals into one epic celebration. Each team has hand-picked their opponents, making the 18th of March the perfect day to settle grudge matches in front of a home crowd.
The heart of the day is, of course, Coombe Dingle, with live matches in every direction you look. Expect action in rugby, football, hockey, and practically any other sport you can imagine, accompanied by a DJ in the hub, and matchside snacks from food stands. Combat sports and performances from student groups will also be taking place in the hub, where the bar will be serving cheap drinks all day long. A site map is available here, so you can plan your route between fixtures, and free buses will be regularly running to and from Tyndall Avenue.
The action isn't just limited to the Dingle though. There are a whole host of venue-specific sports, like sailing and squash, taking place around the city. The Indoor Sports Centre on Tyndall Avenue is also a hotspot, with volleyball, basketball, and much more. To see all your options throughout the day, check out the full fixture list here.
For the Brass Pig inclined amongst us, the Fishies afterparty will be taking place on The Triangle, with the last bus from Coombe Dingle taking you directly there.
The Key Info:
- Entry: Completely free, no ticket required.
- Food and drink: Spectator food and refreshments available all day. You cannot bring your own alcohol due to licensing requirements, but cheap drinks are available at the Hub bar from 12:00 to 21:45.
- Kit storage: Competitors who stick around to watch other matches can store their kit at the main reception.
- Amenities: A prayer room is available on site, speak to the team at main reception for access.
Most importantly, you don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy Derby Day. It's a great day out, and a chance to support your university while watching some top quality competition.
Getting There:
- To Coombe Dingle (from Tyndall Avenue): Buses will depart every hour, from 10:00 to 21:00, except 18:00.
- Return to Tyndall Avenue: Buses will depart every hour, from 10:30 to 19:30, except 18:30.
- Return to The Triangle: The last two buses will take you to The Triangle, departing at 20:30 and 21:30.
- There is parking on site, but beware this is limited and likely to fill up quick.
- Dogs are not allowed on site, unless they are a service or support animal.
If this all sounds like a good time to you, then make sure you bring your best to support Bristol on the 18th of March!
Featured image: Epigram / Julia Mullins
Will you be attending Derby Day?
