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Strathclyde Win On University Challenge

A team of University Of Strathclyde students has qualified for the second round of BBC Two quiz show University Challenge, after winning their first televised contest.

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A team of University Of Strathclyde students has qualified for the second round of BBC Two quiz show University Challenge, after winning their first televised contest.

The students won 145-125 against Imperial College London in the first round match, televised on Monday 25 September.

The contestants tackling the programme’s historically challenging questions were be: Team Captain, Alasdair Logan, studying Mechanical Engineering; Paul Dijkman, studying Economics; James Flannigan, studying Chemical Engineering; PGDE student Ian Brown; and their reserve Francis Berryman, studying Immunology and Microbiology.

The team was selected through a challenging individual test hosted by the University of Strathclyde Students' Union. Before appearing upon the programme, the team went through a rigorous selection process involving tests and an interview. The producers then chose Strathclyde as one of only 28 teams to reach the televised stages in Manchester, from around 130 applicant institutions. This is the fourth time that Strathclyde University has reached this stage of the prestigious quiz.

Team Captain, Alasdair Logan, said: “We’ve all worked very hard on making it through the first round and the whole experience – so far – has really paid-off.

“Our goal was to prove that, while Strathclyde is a self-professed 'Place of Useful Learning', it also welcomes those who celebrate knowledge not as a means, but as an end in itself. The support we’ve received from students and University staff has been incredible, and certainly shows the immense pride that people have towards us and the University.”

Calvin Hepburn, Strathclyde Students’ Union President, said: “The team have provided an exciting start to the new academic year and have really amplified the community spirit across campus. Their work has not only enhanced the Strathclyde experience for many students, but it’s also shows the hard work and dedication that comes from students within the University.

“Whatever happens next, we will be supporting the team every step of the way.”