Nearly 100 spectators gathered at Johnson Hall today to cheer on the five teams from the University of Guelph as they battled through an environmental handicap of mud and bitter cold temperatures to determine the tug-of-war championship at the annual College Royal.  This year marked the twelfth time that the sport has been a part of the week's program at the annual winter carnival and open house event.  

      Co-ordinator of the tournament, Jenn Lalonde shown here talking with event referee Malcolm Monteith, said  that she felt the cold weather and wet ground conditions probably contributed to only five of the eight teams that had registered showing up for the tournament.  Despite the weather, she heard nothing but praise for the job that was done and the fun that everyone had.  "They were definitely pleased to see the numbers were up from previous years.  Now, hopefully we can do the same for following years," said Lalonde.

      When asked about how the event was perceived by the administration, Lalonde replied, "Everyone in College Royal loves this event.  Simply because it is a time during the week that everyone can relax for a while and have some fun.  Not saying that the rest of the weekend isn't fun as well, just that they don't have to worry about anything else for the few hours that they are at the event."