The annual boat race between Cambridge and Oxford takes place this Sunday (April 3) and it’s set to be off the hook. This year it’s known as The Gemini Boat Race and, being one of the world’s oldest sporting races, this year marks the 167th Men’s Boat Race and the 76th Women’s Boat Race.
Following the route of The Championship Course, which is 4 miles long, the race travels between Putney and Mortlake on the River Thames. This historical route was adopted in 1845 and has been the course of choice ever since.
When is the Oxford vs Cambridge boat race?
This Sunday, April 3. The day’s schedule is as follows:
- 1:50pm – broadcast starts on BBC;
- 2:23pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Women’s boat race starts;
- 2:38pm – Osiris vs Blondie boat race starts;
- 2:53 – Isis vs Goldie boat race starts;
- 3:23pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Men’s boat race starts.
Where can I watch the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race?
Even if you’re not a huge fan of boating, the atmosphere is always electric so why not go down to the Thames, hitch up a spot and watch the competition unfold? Events kick off around midday on Sunday. (Don’t worry, the BBC are live broadcasting if you’re too busy *cough* lazy *cough* to head down).
Both Bishop’s Park in Fulham and the Adnam’s Fan Park in Furnivall Gardens are great points for a birdseye view (they’re situated alongside the course) and, after the boats go past, there are screens to watch the drama unfold with a cold beer from one of the tents.
The Crabtree are also hosting their Crabtree Boat Race event where entry is free and doors open early at 10am! Situated on the riverbank between Hammersmith and Putney bridges, expect a prime view of the race from the riverside, or from one of their 10 screens. There will be plenty of food and drink choices serving up traditional and street food options (even veggie and gluten free choices!) and a garden lined with pop up bars. Camden House Brewery Camden, Pimm’s and Tanqueray will be providing the tipples, while the live music will see you into the night.
Pubs such as the Blue Anchor also offer some spectacular views of the Thames and they’re a prime spot for some outdoor pints and tasty grub.
What will the weather be like for the Oxford Vs Cambridge boat race?
Last weekend may have been a little taste of summer, but the weather for the race is set to be, *gulp*, not so great for the event, although it’s due to be slightly warmer than the days leading up so… every cloud? Fingers crossed the gods up in the sky are kind and here’s hoping the teams aren’t feeling any pier pressure because that would surely rock the boat, eh? We’ll stop now…
Who has won the most Oxford vs Cambridge boat races?
Oxford will be hoping to close the gap in the men’s race, as their 80 wins sits them four behind Cambridge’s total of 84. For the women’s race the gap is even bigger, with Cambridge also holding the bragging rights of 44 wins to Oxford’s 30.
Find more information about the races here.
