Alexandria Rugby Takes the Mayor’s Cup Across the Pond to Dundee, Scotland
By MaryBeth Altenberg Powers
Alexandria, VA — The Alexandria Select Rugby teams jumped across the pond to Dundee, Scotland to compete in the Mayor’s Cup — a 17-year tradition that began when the mayors of our two “sister cities” challenged each other to a rugby match.
The women’s team absolutely dominated, winning 87–0! And in a fun throwback to the tradition, some of the original players, along with Mayor Gaskin’s husband, joined in a game of their own and brought home another cup.
The men’s Select team played a hard-fought, exciting game against the Scots. While they ultimately came up short, it was a fantastic match and a wonderful example of the friendship, sportsmanship and goodwill that makes this sister-city relationship so special.
After the games, our Scottish hosts welcomed us to their field tavern for live music, plenty of cheers and lots of camaraderie. The day ended with a wonderful gala celebrating the team(s), the tradition and the friendship between Dundee and Alexandria. There were plenty of toasts and heartfelt remarks from both sides — and it seems this tradition will continue next year, when the Mayor’s Cup comes back home to Alexandria!
