Hillcrest Campus was buzzing with excitement on 20 March as thousands of students came together for the largest student-led sports festival at the university – UPLympics. With the vibrant theme “Electric Pulse: Unleash the Energy”, the event highlighted athletic talent and the strong sense of community on campus.
Over 40 student organisations including residences, day houses, and faculty teams united to take part in track races, field events, chess, and even traditional African games like diketo and skipping. By 17:00, the stadium was filled with cheers, painted faces, and warcries resonating throughout the area. UPlympics 2025 was not only about who is the fastest; it was also about being a part of something greater.
From thrilling 100m sprints to elegant long jumps, the entire field was bustling with energy. Fans were on their feet as the teams fought for the final baton handoff. Some participants entered the 1500m race for fun but ended up exceeding their personal records. The encouragement from their teams and the fans made them forget how exhausted they were.
However, UPlympics 2025 was about more than just about winning medals. Indigenous games and chess stations provided a welcoming opportunity for non-athletes to shine. These elements showcased UP’s wider dedication to diversity and cultural celebration, allowing students from all walks of life to display their skills.
UPlympics is where culture meets competition. It is one of those rare nights on the university calendar when every student, whether they are an athlete or not, feels included. Every team showcased their colours and symbols that reflected their heritage and spirit. In-between events, the spirit was kept alive with warcries, blending traditional rhythms with a modern twist.
The energy reached an all-time high during the Spectators Challenge where audience members participated in brief fitness and dance challenges for interesting prizes. The stadium transformed into a vibrant wave of motion filled with laughter, chants, and the glow of phone lights.
When the last medals were handed out at 22:40, the crowd erupted into chants of “UP! UP!” in unison. The event concluded with a spectacular fireworks display and a promise for an even more exciting edition in 2026.
For many UP students, UPlympics 2025 showed that sport can be about more than physical strength and speed. Sport is also about connection, culture, and pride. From the rush of adrenaline on the track to the bonds formed in the stands, this year’s UPLympics perfectly embodied the essence of what being a UP student is all about.
