'The Boat Race' is a rowing event between the boat clubs of Oxford and Cambridge Universities, which takes place annually in the early spring. The race is known by other names, such as the XChanging Boat Race, the University Boat Race or, as phrased by P.G. Wodehouse in his
Jeeves and Wooster stories, 'the annual aquatic contest between the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge'. Whatever it's known by, this exciting race attracts thousands of viewers each year and many millions more via television.
Crew practicing in Oxford. Photo by Erin Connelly.
Race Location
The current race is a highly-publicised event that takes place on the River Thames in West London between Putney and Mortlake.
The official race website offers a detailed map of the race course, as well as points of historical interest. The next race will be held on Saturday, 7 April 2012 at 2.15pm. This will be the 158th boat race between the two universities.
Where to WatchThe Boat Race course, also known as the Championship Course, is 4 miles or 6.8 km long. There are several places to watch the race, depending on what you're hoping to observe. Spectators line the entire race course along the banks and bridges of the Thames, but there are a few notable viewing spots worth mentioning.
The Start - Putney BridgeThe race starts at Putney Bridge, where you can see the boat crews warm up, take their positions and start the race with a dramatic flag wave from the umpire. The crowds at the start of the race are much more manageable than the crowds at the end of the race.
The Middle - Harrods DepositoryThe Harrods Depository is an important landmark along the race course. The building sits on the Surrey bank, right before the Hammersmith Bridge. According to the boat race's official website, 80 percent of crews who are ahead at the Hammersmith Bridge will go on to win the race.
Harrods Depository. Photo courtesy of Pointillist at en.wikipedia.
The Finish - Chiswick BridgeThe end of the race, at Chiswick Bridge, is the most exciting place to watch the race, but also the most popular. Crowds will be thick at this part of the course, so expect to come early or battle thousands of spectators for a chance to see the victor. After the finish of the race, it is tradition for the winning team to throw their victorious cox into the Thames.
Why to GoCambridge currently leads the contest with 80 wins to Oxford's 76 and the race is always fiercely contested. The chance to watch world-class athletes compete along the scenic Thames, and to cheer on your favourite university, provides an enjoyable day-out for the whole family.
Race Finish at Chiswick Bridge. Photo courtesy of Myk Reeve.
