The
boat race, between the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, took its first splash way back in 1829. This annual event now now brings a quarter of a million spectators to the banks of the Thames, and millions around the world watch the spectacle on TV.
There are various spots along the river ideal for
viewing the contest. Popular locations include Bishops Park and Furnival Gardens, both offering views from the riverside. Even better, both parks will have big screens so you can watch the boats start and finish the race, while enjoying food and beer from the various stalls.
The course is just over four miles long and goes from Putney to Mortlake. The current course record is held by Cambridge at 16 minutes and 19 seconds.
It hasn't always gone swimmingly for the teams – in 1978 Cambridge had that sinking feeling. In 1912,
both teams went under the water and the race had to be re-run, or perhaps I should say re-rowed.
The race involves months of intense training and is taken very seriously by both teams. Cambridge has notched up 79 wins to Oxford's 75, so this year Oxford are looking to close the gap.
So go along and enjoy the festival atmosphere of this historic event and see athletes at the top of their game, pushing themselves to the limits of physical endurance. It's guaranteed to be oar-inspiring!
