This weekend sees the annual British tradition of the University Boat Race. Once again the finest oarsmen of Oxford and Cambridge will duel it out along the River Thames.
Ahead of this weekend’s showdown, we’ve put together a one-stop guide to get you ready to go…
What is the Boat Race?
The Boat Race is an annual tradition. The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge go head-to-head in a 4.2mile rowing race along the River Thames in London.
The first race took place in 1829, and was held sporadically until it became a regular event in 1856. The race has been held every year since then, aside from World Wars One and Two.
Cambridge currently have the most wins with 83. Oxford have 80 wins, with one famous dead heat way back in 1877.
Who is in the Boat Race?
The Boat Race sees the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford do battle on the river. Oxford are the dark blues, while Cambridge are the light blues.
Many famous names have taken part in the race over the years. Olympic gold medallists Sir Steve Redgrave and Sir Matthew Pinsent have both rowed for Oxford, as have Tim Foster and actor Hugh Laurie.
Cambridge have the celebrity presence this year though, with Redgrave and Pinsent’s former team-mate James Cracknell in their crew.
What are the Boat Race odds?
Last year’s winners Cambridge are favourites to defend their victory as 1/3.
Oxford are 9/4 outsiders while 150/1 says we get only the second-ever dead heat.
When is the 2019 Boat Race?
The 2019 Boat Race will take place on Sunday April 7th, with the race starting at 3.10pm, as is tradition.
Where is the 2019 Boat Race?
The race takes place along the River Thames. It starts just to the west of Putney Bridge, and takes the crews through west London, under the Hammersmith and Barnes Bridges, with the finish line coming up just before Chiswick Bridge.
The race is expected to last up to 20 minutes. Cambridge posted the fastest ever winning time of 16minutes and 19 seconds in 1998.
How can I watch the 2019 Boat Race?
BBC One will be showing this year’s Boat Race, as well as several of the support races.
Coverage begins from 1.20pm, with the main race starting at 3.10pm.
