More than 78 students and Alumni from Pierre-and-Marie-Curie University (UPMC) in Paris, France travelled to Dublin for an annual friendly rugby game against RCSI on Saturday, 25 February at Railway Union RFC.

Since 1991, this match has alternated between Dublin and Paris, is dependent on the location of the 6 Nations battle between Ireland and France.

The weekend commenced on Friday, 24 February with a welcome dinner in the College Hall and Board Room of RCSI. The visitors were welcomed to the College by the RCSI rugby team, Student Union President, Professor Alan Johnson (retired), Prof. Michael Farrell, Dr Robert Ryan, Dr Kevin Tempany, Corriena Brien and Emily O'Brien. 

The match day commenced in Railway Union RFC, the sun was shining as the RCSI Alumni team, led by Shane Carr, took on the alumni team from UMPC in a friendly touch rugby match.

At 2.30pm RCSI captain Luke Trench led his team to the battle field. The national anthems concluded as the heavens opened! In spite of the monsoon style rains the RCSI spirit dominated throughout. After four long years of defeat, RCSI brought home the trophy beating Les Petit Cochon in a very convincing 36-7.

"It was an amazing weekend. We have made friends that will last a lifetime from Paris. It was really important to the whole squad to win this year, we worked really hard and everybody pulled their weight throughout the year. Thanks to Student Services for their support in organising the weekend," said Luke Trench, captain of RCSI Rugby.

In spite of the rain, there was great support on the day from students, staff, family and friends. Special thanks to Luke Trench's parents for their help both on the day and throughout the season and Jack Kearney's father who was instrumental in facilitating logistics on the day. Jonathon Sharkey, coach, the team have come on leaps and bounds under his instruction, this is his first season with RCSI and we look forward to continuing to work with him into the future. Ollie O'Flanagan, Honorary Secretary of RCSI RFC and number one supporter for his continued enthusiasm throughout the year and Billy Cahill for the fabulous photos on the day. Thank you to Cian McCarty, the staff and supporters of Railway RFC who were incredibly supportive and accommodating.

Dinner was served in Railway as the 6 nations match kicked off at 4.50pm, Irish celebrations continued late into Sunday as the national team beat France 19-9.

Thank you to UPMC, Les Petit Cochon, for coming to Dublin yet again, this 26-year tradition would not be possible without both teams continuing to make such a large effort and commitment, we look forward to meeting again in Paris 2018.