Birkbeck triumphs in first round of University Challenge
This year’s team won their first round of the BBC’s university quiz show on Monday 10 August.
Birkbeck’s University Challenge team have steamed to victory in the first round of this year’s University Challenge. On Monday night’s show they faced the University of Reading, and secured a place in the next round with an impressive lead of 295 points to Reading’s 50.
In the opening, the show’s host Jeremy Paxton remarked that the average age of Birkbeck’s team was 49 years compared to Reading’s average age of 37 years. The team represent a diverse range of disciplines, proving to have a good grasp on the wide range of topics covered during the show. The team captain, Jonathan Williams is studying MA Classics, Jonathan Taylor is studying for a Postgraduate Diploma in Environment and Sustainability, Nicky Clarke is completing a PhD in Early Modern History and Joshua Mutio an MSc in Politics, Philosophy and Economics.
Birkbeck made a return to University Challenge last year after a 16-year break following their victory in 2003. This year’s team have ignited new hopes for Birkbeck going far in this year’s competition.
Birkbeck Student Union commented: “The team demonstrated composure, confidence and class. A classic display of Birkbeck Brilliance! We wish them all the best for this year’s competition.”
Fraser Keir, Academic Registrar at Birkbeck said: “Birkbeck students have a great track record on University Challenge and this week’s win just illustrated the tremendous breadth and depth of knowledge in our student body. Our students were quick on the buzzer and knew their subjects inside out. We wish them well for the next round!”
The team will appear in the next round in September 2020.