Sadly, the team did not go on to hold the cup for the remainder of the 2010 season and nor was it able to secure the silverware this year.
But that means club history remains intact for members of the triumphant 1971-72 teams, who dominated country rugby competition in the early 1970s.
Next month, White Horse Cup fever will be relived as players and administrators from the early 1970s reunite to celebrate the 40th anniversary since first claiming the trophy.
Club president Paul Cunningham recalled yesterday the reaction last year after Upper Clutha's close encounter with Arrowtown.
"It was a brief taste and the highlight of players' careers ... It was a famous win 7-6 last year over Arrowtown. Wanaka just went mental," he said.
The Upper Clutha club celebrated its centenary in 2000.
It had just amalgamated with the Tarras Rugby Club in 1970 before winning both the trophy and the country competition in 1971 and 1972.
The club also won the competition in 1973 but did not retain the trophy that year.
In 1972, the club was one of the first in the country to allow women entry to after-match functions - there were 13 married members of the team at that time.
The winning team members and their wives and partners last celebrated their White Horse Cup glory days 15-20 years ago.
Club patron Peter "PL" Anderson said most former players and administrators had indicated they and their wives and partners would be able to attend.
They include John Lee, Carrick Jones, Kevin Scurr and Gordon McLeod.
Patrick McCarthy and Dave Mayburn will provide entertainment at the lunch-time function.
Mr Anderson is the contact for this year's 40th reunion, to be held on Sunday, October 9 at noon, at The Venue on Orchard Rd.
