A few years ago I was lucky enough to go out one morning following the Oxford crew. They were training on the thames ahead of Oxford Cambridge Boat Race. This annual race is a firm fixture in the elite rowing calendar and watched worldwide. The men and women that take part are the fittest of the fit.
We followed the crew along the course from Putney to Chiswick in glorious blue skies, and a chill factor of about -5. Was it worth it – yes absolutely. We passed all the boats out on the water, getting in their early training slot. Men and women’s top boats showed an impressive stroke.
This year’s boat race happens over the Easter weekend. Find yourself a fan zone, they are all free to attend and I will leave you with some fun facts to get you in the mood.
7 Fun Facts | Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race
Here are your 7 fun facts to get you in the mood for the Oxford and Cambridge boat race. It’s going to be a good, if not a windy one. If you are joining a pub quiz, read on!
Fact 1
The rowing clubs’ presidents toss an 1829 gold sovereign coin (to commemorate the origins of the race) for the right to choose which side of the river they row on.
Fact 2
The first race was in 1829 when Cambridge challenged Oxford to a race in Henley. Oxford won.
Fact 3
Since 2018 The Boat Race has officially included the women’s race.
Fact 4
Cambridge have now won 86 times and Oxford 81.
Fact 5
There was one dead heat, in 1877
Fact 6
In 2022 there are 5 Olympians in the Oxford boat, and 4 in the Cambridge boat. Including 2 British medalists in each boat.
Fact 7
In 2021 the boat race was held on the Great Ouse because of COVID, with no spectators, other than ducks!
If you do go out to watch them race, shout as loud as you can, that is part of the fun. It is all free, other than supporting the local pubs and food vans. Wrap up warm, when the wind gets going on the river the chill factor is chillier than you think. On your marks, get set … GO
Have you read our Super Seven for other ideas in London this month
Map of the course
