Yorkshire's Sporting Gold

The London 2012 Olympic Games have drawn to a close, leaving some fantastic memories of sporting achievements.  Yorkshire’s medal haul – 7 gold, 2 silver, 3 bronze – has made us all proud, and the selection of archive films in our latest curated collection prove that we’ve always had our fair share of sporting heroes.

YFA has some impressive footage showcasing the sporting prowess of Yorkshire folk, especially amongst the young; for this Olympic-themed Curated Collection, we've chosen some examples featuring sports that can be seen in the London games. 

First up is the British Cyclo Cross Championship of 1962, taking place at Tingley, also near Wakefield.  This stars Yorkshire’s greatest cyclist, and possibly greatest ever athlete, Morley Cycle Club member Beryl Burton. 

Secondly, we have a Police Amateur Boxing Tournament in Wakefield in 1939, including youngsters from Wakefield City and Pontefract boys’ clubs, as well as local bobbies, in boxing action. 

Lastly, there is Arncliffe Village Sports and Fete from 1976, revealing the sporting spirit of the willing, but perhaps less talented, in the local competitions, including some entertaining wrestling.

If you enjoy those and would like to see some other sporting footage, check out the films below:

Yorkshire Archery Championships (1961)
Hull Physical Culture Club (Jubilee Celebrations at Hull) (1935)
Rowntree Sports Day (1946)
Sheffield Spartan Swimmers (1933-34)
Scenes at the Ripon Highland Sports (1916)
Newlands Cup Final (1955)
Judean Club in Leeds (1935)