In 1997, Ovenden made their debut against a professional side in the Rugby League Challenge Cup when they played Wakefield Trinity at Belle Vue in the 3^rd Round of the 100^th Challenge Cup competition.

In 1998, Ovenden played Salford at Thrum Hall as the first amateur club to face a Super League club in the Challenge Cup.

After their earlier exploits in the Rugby League Challenge Cup, Ovenden had to wait until 2010 for their next professional opposition. The draw threw up an intriguing  tie pairing Ovenden  once again with their local professional club, Halifax.  This 3^rd round game was a repeat of the earlier Plays No. 6 Trophy  and  was this time played at the Shay. It was game eagerly awaited by both chairmen, Rob Midgley of Ovenden and Michael Steele of Halifax as a celebration of the magic of the Rugby League Challenge Cup. Rob Midgley enthusiastically commented

“for us the draw against our own local professional club is what dreams are made of”.

Michael Steele was equally enthusiastic “The magic of the (Challenge) Cup often throws up amateur v professional matches ..but the added spice of a local derby is unusual.”

Ovenden’s final Challenge Cup appearance was in the 2nd round in February 2019 against Bradford team, West Bowling. Ovenden had beaten an exceptionally good Woolston side in the first round in a fantastic game at Four Fields. However, in the second round West Bowling were victors and with that Ovenden’s Challenge Cup history came to an end.

Ovenden - Results - RLP (rugbyleagueproject.org)