Littlejohn Vase


The Littlejohn of Invercharron Challenge Vase, also known as the Littlejohn Vase, is a trophy in university shinty. It is the second most expensive sporting trophy in Scotland, after the Scottish Cup. The Littlejohn Vase is competed for by university shinty teams on an annual basis, in a one-day event traditionally held at a different university every year, although since 2007 it has been held at St Andrews.

The Vase

The vase is a facsimile in silver of the Warwick Vase discovered in 1770 and on display at the Burrell Collection, Glasgow. It is held in trust by the Aberdeen University Library. Due to its value a stand in quaich is given to the winning side as insurance costs mean the cup may not leave Aberdeen. In 1905 it was bequeathed to Aberdeen University Shinty Club by Alexander Littlejohn. The vase has been played for since 1905, the year of its bequeathment.

The Album

Accompanying the trophy is an ornate album which depicts the history of the game of shinty as well as a record of Littlejohn's gift.

Winners

The vase has been a prize for at least 100 years. In 2009 the competition was postponed but eventually played.