Why the Boat Race is much more than simply Oxford vs Cambridge

A rowing race comprising 36 athletes across two universities straight through the heart of west London has developed into more

What is The Boat Race? To the thousands who line the banks, partisan or otherwise, and to the many millions who tune in at home, it’s a rowing race comprising 36 athletes across two universities straight through the heart of west London. Now in its 164th year for the men and 73rd for the women, it is also an example of sporting prowess. But beyond the fanfare that inevitably surrounds a British tradition, the human factors are where the story really lies.

For Oxford’s women, hardy from the lows of defeat, The Boat Race is redemption. Scuppered on the start-line by a misplaced blade last year, they will return to Putney Bridge with something to prove. Led by American Katherine Erickson, who has casually returned from a year abroad during her DPhil in postcolonial Ugandan religious architecture and visual culture, the Dark Blues are fuelled by a sense that their best efforts are yet to be given fair representation. It remains to be seen if even that will be enough.

For Cambridge’s women, The Boat Race is hope. Since 2012, Cambridge have lost on four of the five occasions they’ve faced Oxford. Last year presented their growing program with a glimmer of optimism amongst a Dark Blue storm – a win albeit one which was determined by their opposition. Such is the strength of their crew this year that there is no place for President Daphne Martschenko, returning from two unsuccessful Boat Race campaigns. Former US world champion Olivia Coffey heads a talented new line-up.

For Oxford’s men, The Boat Race is solidarity. Josh Bugajski, the strongman from Wales who was objectively considered Oxford’s best athlete, was replaced on Tuesday by Benedict Aldous amidst a storm of rumour. Bugajski’s omission from the crew leaves a hole that even the junior world bronze medallist Aldous may struggle to fill. Oxford, however, are not short of firepower; Anders Weiss has rowed at the Olympics for Team USA and Will Geffen has winning Boat Race experience from 2015. It is worth noting that history does not favour late changes though, and the men from Oxford will have to draw on greater powers than the strength of muscle to prevail.

For Cambridge’s men, The Boat Race is reputation. Leading the overall tally by 82 wins to Oxford’s 80, the Light Blues have been touted as strong favourites since the squads were announced last year. Their pre-race activities certainly defend that status – strong showings at fixtures, events and on the physical scoreboard (James Letten, in the three seat, is the tallest man to ever row in The Boat Race) all point towards a Cambridge victory.

The Boat Race is a celebration of heritage, of tradition and of all the above. For the athletes, it’s just about crossing the line first.