A notoriously competitive event, awaited by many from all across the county: The 158th Oxford vs. Cambridge boat race. The race ran through Putney to Chiswick across the river Thames, with bridges lined with supporters who cheered loudly and braced the cold weather to witness the event. Cheers roared across the river as the boats neared, but almost ten minutes into the race, the boats were called to a halt due to an anti-elitist protestor jumping into the water; the race was re-started almost half an hour later. This was the first time the race had been re-started since 2001, after the oars of either team clashed- a similar story to this year’s race, ultimately causing Oxford to take on Cambridge seven men to eight.
With Oxford suffering a broken oar, Cambridge had the upper hand and consequently won the race. Shortly after crossing the finish line, Oxford bowman Dr Alex Woods collapsed in his boat and was rushed to the hospital after being checked by on-site medics, however was said to have recovered well and was back at home.
Despite the interruption, cold weather and the medical emergency, the crowd generally enjoyed the race and it proved to be a great opportunity for members of the local community and others to meet and join in the celebration of a historic event.
