166. Boat Race
Cambridge University rowers have won the traditional race with rival Oxford on the River Thames. It was the third success in a row.
The University of Cambridge Rowing Eight has won the 166th Boat Race against eternal rivals Oxford. The “Light Blues” won behind closed doors on the Great Ouse by a boat length for the third time in a row. Cambridge now leads the overall standings with 85 wins, while Oxford has 80 wins. In 1877 there had been no winner.
For the first time in its 192-year history, the traditional race took place without spectators. To this end, the duel was moved from London’s Thames to the dead-straight Great Ouse in the town of Ely. Up to a quarter of a million people normally watch the race from the shore.
Boat Race for the first time with a female referee
It was the first time since the Second World War that the students had to leave London for their competition. Referee Sarah Winckless, who was the first woman to referee the men’s race, also made a debut.
The “Light Blues” from Cambridge also won among the women, who have been competing since 1927. After their fourth win in a row, Cambridge now has a total of 45 wins, well ahead of Oxford with 30 wins.