The Cancer Research UK Boat Races - The Course The Course previous next The Championship Course, Putney to Mortlake The Boat Race course, known as the Championship Course is 4 miles, 374 yards or 6.8 Km long. It stretches between Putney and Mortlake on the River Thames in South West London. This course was first used for the Boat Race in 1845 and has been used for every race since, (apart from 1846, 1856 and 1863 when the race was held in the opposite direction between Mortlake and Putney). The Fulham/Chiswick side of the course is known as the Middlesex side. The Putney/Barnes side of the course is known as the Surrey side. The Boat Races are rowed upstream, but are timed to start on the incoming flood tide. The Boat Race is usually an hour before high tide, with the Women's Boat Race a further hour before so that the crews are rowing with the fastest possible current. The University Stone The University Stone is set into the towpath on Putney Embankment a few metres below Putney Bridge.

The races will start from two stake boats moored so that the competitors' bows are in line with the University Stone. There is an equivalent stone set into the bank, adjacent to The Ship pub in Mortlake, at the finish of the race. The University Stone at Putney Detail map of the start Before The Cancer Research UK Boat Race the umpire will toss a coin, an 1829 gold sovereign, to decide which side or station the crews will row on. The challenger (the President of the losing club from the previous year), will call heads or tails. The Cancer Research UK Women's Boat Race toss will use a 2015 gold sovereign to commemorate the first year The Women's Boat Race took place on the Championship Course. In both races, the choice of stations could prove decisive. The President's decision will be based on the day's weather conditions and the advantage they thinks their crew can gain from either the Middlesex or Surrey bends. The first and final bends give an advantage to the crew on the Middlesex station, while the long middle bend favours Surrey.

Crews race off the start at Putney The crews warm up heading through both Putney road and rail bridges towards Wandsworth before returning to move on to the stake boats. This version of Putney Bridge was completed in 1886. Aligned on the stake boats, the athletes will be able to look across at their opposition for the first time. Watched by thousands of spectators, the early stages of the races will see the crews pass the Putney boathouses on their way to Chiswick. The crews race past the boathouses and crowds in Putney in the 2014 BNY Mellon Boat Race The Mile Post Times are recorded during the race at fixed points along the course. The first of these is The Mile Post, 1 mile from the University Stone at the start of the race. The plinth on the Surrey bank commemorates Cambridge 'Blue' & Tideway coach Steve Fairbairn. It was erected by members of Thames and London Rowing Club's in honour of Fairbairn's skills as a coach and his role in founding the Head of the River Race in 1926.

The record to this point is held by Cambridge (1998), in a time of 3mins 33 sec. The plinth at The Mile Post commemorating Steve Fairbairn Harrods Depository A key landmark for crews and spectators alike, Harrods Depository was a furniture warehouse for the eponymous store. Converted into flats in the 1990's the building has a commanding position on the Surrey bank, just before the crews shoot Hammersmith Bridge. The advantage is just beginning to turn towards the Surrey crew at this point, and was where Oxford (on the Surrey station) broke clear in The 2014 BNY Mellon Boat Race. The 2011 Boat Race crews passing Harrods Depository Boat Race crews approaching Hammersmith Bridge At Hammersmith Bridge the advantage of the Surrey bend starts to come into play. Traditionally cox's aim for the second lampost from the left as they pass under the bridge. 80% of crews ahead at Hammersmith go on to win.

It is at this point the cox on the Surrey station can steer a course to capitalise on the advantage of their advantage, trying to push the Middlesex crew as wide as the Umpire will allow. The record to this point is held by Cambridge (1998), 6mins 20sec. In the 2014 BNY Mellon Boat Race, Oxford led at Hammersmith Detail map of the Surrey bend The Surrey bend, with its apex just past Hammersmith Bridge, often plays a crucial role in the outcome of the race. The crew drawn on the Surrey station will try to ensure they are still in contention so they can put in a push as they take the shorter route on the inside of the bend, this push can be decisive. Conversely the crew on Middlesex will try and stay in contention on the outside of the bend. As the bend runs out their own push can break their opponents. Chiswick Eyot Pronounced eight, Chiswick Eyot is a small uninhabited island, formerly used for growing osiers (a type of Salix or Willow used for basket making), it is now a nature reserve.

The river is very briefly straight here and as a result can be exposed to some rough conditions - such as The Boat Race in 2006. Often one crew will make their decisive move as they approach the island. The 2013 BNY Mellon Boat Race crews race towards Chiswick Eyot in the background Chiswick Steps Chiswick Steps themselves are a small set of concrete steps leading to the shore on the Surrey bank past Chiswick Eyot. They are normally underwater during the Boat Race as the race is rowed shortly before high tide. By this stage the Surrey bend has run out and the final bend in favour of the crew on Middlesex is just about to begin. The record to this point is held by Cambridge (1998), 9mins 56sec. Although over 10 minutes into the race, the crews from the 2012 Boat Race remained indistinguishable through each timing marker to this point, reaching Chiswick Steps in 10mins 23sec. Cambridge went on to win the race from the Surrey station.

The 2009 crews on their way to Barnes Bridge, having just passed Chiswick Steps Detail map of the finish Towards the finish of the race the final Middlesex, bend comes in to play. If the crews are still close this is the time for the crew on Middlesex to put in a push, they have the advantage and often better water. However if the crew on Surrey can stay in touch through Barnes Bridge there is a real opportunity wear down a Middlesex crew that would be expected to win on the inside of the bend. Barnes Bridge Completed in 1895, Barnes Bridge is now a Grade II listed structure. Crews are required to pass through the centre arch. Only one boat has won since 1945 when trailing at Barnes Bridge: Oxford came from behind this late in 2002. The Barnes Bridge corner is very tight: if both crews are level, as in 2003, this is a real test for the coxes. The record at this point is held by Cambridge (1998), 13mins 32sec.

The 2013 BNY Mellon Boat Race heads under Barnes Bridge The Finish The finish is just before Chiswick Bridge, marked by a small plinth on the Surrey bank and a post in the river on the Middlesex side painted in the University's colours. Chiswick Bridge was opened by the Prince of Wales in 1933. After months of training, if not years, it is here that the winners express their joy and the losers their despair. The record is held by the 1998 Cambridge crew who completed the course in 16mins 19sec. The time however means little when considered against the result of the day: won or lost. The two exhausted crews reach the finish in the 2010 race Hammersmith to Barnes along the Thames | DropGuides Hammersmith to Barnes along the Thames The Tide Race - Hammersmith to Barnes along the Thames Hammersmith to Barnes along the Thames Hammersmith Broadway London W6 8AB United Kingdom Tags: Barnes Bridge , Hammersmith , London , United Kingdom Another classy riverside walk which covers part of the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race course but in the reverse direction.

The walk starts at Hammersmith Underground (District & Circle Lines) or Hammersmith (Hammersmith & City Line). You can also reach the start point in the Broadway shopping centre on any bus passing through or terminating at Hammersmith Bus Station which is located over the Underground. The start is in Zone 1 but we end our walk at Barnes Bridge in Zone 3 so a Zone 1 – 3 Travelcard is advisable. Aiming for the church beside Hammersmith Broadway, we walk down Queen Caroline St towards the river Thames and the Riverside Studios. The Broadway is a busy roundabout under the flyover taking traffic to the West and South West so please pay careful attention to the instructions, and DO NOT cross anywhere other than using the pedestrian crossings or the underpass. Very shortly the busy bustle of Hammersmith Broadway fades away, and we can sit on a bench by the river adjacent to the iconic Hammersmith Bridge, the first suspension bridge across the Thames. The way is easy to find, as the Thames Path is clearly marked so you should have no difficulty ober the 2 1/2 miles or so, and there is little if any traffic throughout.

There are many fine pubs along the first section, and you will hear me talk about one Fuller’s ale I try at the Dove. The walk passes the Fuller’s Brewery. We also pass many boat houses belonging to the various clubs dedicated to skulling or sailing. Kelmscott House is interesting because it was the London home of William Morris. If you want to visit the William Morris Society, you should take the walk on a Thursday or Saturday afternoon (open 2 – 5 pm). The adjacent coach house is the site of the very first telegraph. Sir Francis Ronalds managed to pass an electrical current through 8 miles of cable encased in glass tubing. The British Admiralty were unimpressed and did not pursue the idea. You can read more about Fuller’s ales by clicking on the Fuller’s home page. The walk uses the Thames Path, various quiet riverside roads, and two extensive open parks. There are wonderful (and expensive) houses much of the way, and continuous views of the river except where private gardens give glimpses through railing beside Chiswick Eyot. Eventually we arrive at the Bandstand and climb the steps to the pedestrian walkway leading over Barnes Bridge.

This crosses the river straight onto Platform 1 with 4 trains an hour to Clapham Junction and Waterloo. London Walks 1-844-D...1-844-DROPTOUR dropguides+londonwalks@... [email protected] These walking tours were recorded by Robert Wright and are available through a Creative Commons license 3.0 . No reviews for Hammersmith to Barnes along the Thames yet. Be the first to leave one! You must be logged in to submit reviews. Login Here → Contact DropGuides: Thank you! Your message has been successfully sent. DROPGUIDE LOCATION The Boat Race The Boat Race Exhausted crews at the finish of the 2002 Boat Race. Cambridge are on the left of the picture. Boat Race course ("Middlesex" and "Surrey" denote sides of the Thames Tideway, not the actual English counties) The Boat Race is a rowing race in England between the Oxford University Boat Club and the Cambridge University Boat Club. It is rowed annually each spring on the Thames in London . The event is a popular one, not only with the alumni of the universities, but also with rowers in general and the public.

An estimated quarter of a million people watch the race live from the banks of the river, around seven to nine million people on TV in the UK, and an overseas audience estimated by the Boat Race Company of around 120 million, however, other estimates put the international audience below 20 million. The first race was in 1829 and it has been held annually since 1856, with the exception of the two world wars. Members of both teams are traditionally known as blues and each boat as a " Blue Boat", with Cambridge in light blue and Oxford dark blue. Course The course is 4 miles and 374 yards (6,779 m) from Putney to Mortlake, passing Hammersmith and Barnes; it is sometimes referred to as the Championship Course, and follows an S shape, east to west. The start and finish are marked by the University Boat Race Stones on the south bank. The clubs' presidents toss a coin (the 1829 sovereign) before the race for the right to choose which side of the river (station) they will row on: their decision is based on the day's weather conditions and how the various bends in the course might favour their crew's pace.

The north station (' Middlesex') has the advantage of the first and last bends, and the south (' Surrey') station the longer middle bend. Competing for the fastest current During the race the coxes compete for the fastest current, which lies at the deepest part of the river, frequently leading to clashes of blades and warnings from the umpire. A crew that gets a lead of more than a boat's length can cut in front of their opponent, making it extremely difficult for the losing crew to overtake back. For this reason the tactics of the race are generally to go fast early on, and few races have a change of the lead after half-way (though this happened in 2003 and again in 2007). The race is rowed upstream, but is timed to start on the incoming flood tide so that the crews are rowing with the fastest possible current. If a strong wind is blowing from the west it will be against the tide in places along the course, causing the water to become very rough. The conditions are sometimes such that an international regatta would be cancelled, but the Boat Race has a tradition of proceeding even in potential sinking conditions. Several races have featured one, or both, of the crews sinking.

This happened to Cambridge in 1859 and 1978, and to Oxford in 1925 and 1951. Both boats sank in 1912, and the race was re-run, and in 1984 Cambridge sank after crashing into a stationary barge while warming up before the race. Cambridge's sinking in 1978 was named in 79th place on Channel 4's list of the 100 Greatest Sporting Moments. The race is for heavyweight eights (i.e., for eight rowers with a cox steering, and no restrictions on weight). Female coxes are permitted, the first to appear in the Boat Race being Sue Brown for Oxford in 1981. In fact female rowers would be permitted in the men's boat race, though the reverse is not true. During the race the crews pass various traditional landmarks, visible from the river: Landmark Oxford Cambridge boat race 2016 route: Where to watch in London, what time it starts - and the best pubs along the River Thames | City A.M.

29,423 views Thursday 24 March 2016 12:20pm Oxford Cambridge boat race 2016 route: Where to watch in London, what time it starts - and the best pubs along the River Thames Share For the first time this year, womens' teams will be permitted to race on the same day, along the same course as their male counterparts (Source: Getty) Emma Haslett, Lynsey Barber Not only is it a long Bank Holiday weekend, it's that time of year when Oxford and Cambridge go head to head on the waters of the Thames - yep, it's boat race time. The 162nd race will pit the two rival universities against each other, with Oxford chasing Cambridge's 81 wins versus Oxford's 79 in the men's event. The Cambridge women also hold a bigger lead of 41 wins to Oxford's 29. Timings Event coverage kicks off at 2.30pm on Sunday 27 March, on the BBC . The women's race begins at 3.10pm, with the men's race following an hour later at 4.10pm.

The course The Championship Course stretches for four miles between Putney and Mortlake, taking in Hammersmith and Barnes bridges. It's been used for almost every race since 1845, apart from in 1846, 1856 and 1863, when the direction was reversed. Where to watch it If you want more than just a flash of the boats as they pass, Putney Bridge is the ideal spot - although arrive early if you're planning on being able to see anything. Putney Embankment will also be busy - if you'd rather enjoy the event in style, you could pay to go into one of the rowing clubs lining the river along the embankment. Further west is Hammersmith Bridge, another popular spot for spectators, while the towpath along the North Bank of the river will also be busy. Meanwhile, Chiswick Pier will have views of the crews as they "power upstream from Chiswick Eyot past the Pier and through to the final bend". It'll be open from 2pm, serving food and drink all afternoon.

Finally, Dukes Meadow - a park and recreation ground between Chiswick and Barnes bridges on the North Bank - will provide good views of the final stage of the race. The best pubs Boat Race - WHERE THAMES SMOOTH WATERS GLIDE Port of London Rowing Chart Richmond Lock to Fulham Rail Bridge Map taken from George Drinkwater's "The Boat Race" 156: Saturday, 3rd April, 2010 at 1630 Cambridge won the 156th boat race by 1 1/3 lengths in 17 minutes 35 seconds. Oxford 75, Cambridge 80. [ 2010: RESERVES GOLDIE by 2 lengths 18:03 ] Oxford won the toss and chose Surrey. Oxford had if anything the best start and looked the better crew. They slowly eased away from Cambridge, and at the mile post were a third of a length up. Then Oxford held their lead on the Middlesex bend in favour of Cambridge. At Hammersmith Bridge the Oxford lead was nearly a length with the long Surrey bend still to go. At this point few people outside the Cambridge boat would have given much for their chances.

But then they slowly began to go up on Oxford despite being on the outside of the bend. That was a blend of training and sheer guts to be able to produce that much power at that stage when it would have been easy to feel they were beaten. When Oxford should have opened up perhaps a length of clear water Cambridge actually made up water on them. At Chiswick Steps Cambridge were a canvas down; but then came out of the bend with their bows ahead and led by two thirds of a length at Barnes Bridge From then on the bend was in Cambridge's favour and they eased into a lead - and though Oxford hung on grimly they never really threatened the Cambridge lead. Towards the finish Oxford who might have held Cambridge to half a length appeared to give up the fight and lost by four seconds. The coxing was superb, particularly Cambridge - and though clashes did appear possible and the courses were rightly aggressive, clashes were avoided and the umpire struck a good balance, warning without nagging. Cambridge achieved what is the classic Cambridge rowing move - which is to increase speed, not by raising the rating, but by raising the power.

Since the stroke length is, or should be, more or less fixed, this implies that, as the time in the water is decreased, so the time on the slide is increased leaving the rating the same. To do this in the second half of a boatrace is an enormous tribute to their training. Bow Ted Randolph 157: Saturday, 26th March, 2011 at 1700 Oxford won the 157th boat race by 4 lengths in 17 mins 32 secs. Oxford 76, Cambridge 80. [ 2011: RESERVES ISIS by 6 lengths 17:38 Faster than Cambridge ] A very modest tide and not too much wind. Oxford won the toss and chose the Surrey station. Oxford, the lighter crew, appeared keener and more on top of their work from the very start. In comparison Cambridge seemed powerful but almost lumbering. Oxford led from the start, inching away at first, holding Cambridge's pushes and then in the middle of the race taking a decided lead which enabled them to choose their water. From then on at several points Cambridge were on the Surrey station and Oxford nearer Middlesex.

This at the very least suggests disagreement as to where the tide was - but if Oxford erred in coming over too far there is little to be said because they won decisively. Cambridge in training appeared to be having a much more pleasant time of it and majored on the fellowship between their oarsmen. Oxford in contrast were much more coldly scientific and placed relationships lower down their order of priorities. In terms of the debate raised on this website (see Henley Regatta) this was a victory of the athletes over the gentlemen. By that I do not mean to imply anything less gentlemanly about Oxford - merely that their attitude to the task in hand was a colder more rational approach. The umpire warned both boats significantly in the first few minutes and the coxes seemed to take notice of him. At one stage there was a significant overlap of oars and disaster was possible. (ie oars might have clashed, breaking oars or riggers and even injuring rowers) However as Oxford pulled ahead that problem resolved itself and though the umpire showed signs of nerves obviously thinking what would happen if Cambridge did in fact manage to come back, they didn't, and that was that.

Bow Liz Box 158: Saturday, 7th April, 2012 at 1415 Cambridge won the 158th boat race. Oxford 76, Cambridge 81. No time was taken and no (lengths) verdict given. [ 2012: RESERVES ISIS by 5 lengths 16:41 ] Cambridge won the toss and chose the Surrey station. Oxford were favourites despite giving away a stone and a half and 2 inches in height. Oxford made the better start though they were warned several times for coming over towards Cambridge. Cambridge slowly settled and held them and even caught up a little on the outside of the first bend. It was turning into a most impressive battle with Cambridge just holding Oxford, with Oxford probably better placed to win - until 10 minutes and 40 seconds into the race when Matthew Pinsent, assistant umpire, spotted a swimmer in the water ahead of Oxford. The umpire stopped the race with only a few feet to spare before the swimmer who ducked under Oxford's strokeside blades. With both crews easied the following launches had to do emergency stops and created a great deal of wash.

Assuming the swimmer knew what he was doing he was relying on the race being stopped otherwise the following launches could well have killed him. Both crews then had to spin and go back below Chiswick Eyot. This all took some time as the following launches had to turn and pass the crews and reform below them. On turning again and approaching the restart the Cambridge cox probably decided that the wash was too high and turned back downstream in order to give the wash time to subside. Oxford followed suit. The Umpire and the coxes did a magnificent job on restarting the race when eventually the crews returned. Oxford probably made a better restart but pushed over towards Cambridge and were warned two or three times before a clash occurred and Oxford six lost the entire blade section of his oar. Oxford appealed to the umpire to stop the race which he refused to do, so the race continued with Cambridge naturally taking the lead and opening up to about five lengths at the finish. The Umpire confirmed that the result stood. He was asked about his decision and pointed out that the rules say 'a crew must abide by its accidents'.

In other words that damage which occurs to a boat does not affect the result unless it was caused by the fault of the other crew. Cambridge he decided were in their right position and Oxford were being warned at the time - so the damage to the Oxford boat was not Cambridge's fault. The race therefore could continue. The Oxford cox claimed that the wash affected her steering and prevented her moving away from Cambridge. Only she could tell if that was so. The wash was certainly still significant at that point. On the finish the Oxford bow man lay back horizontally in his seat and eventually after a minute or two it was realised that there was a medical emergency and he was taken up into a launch and given medical treatment. Dr Alexander Woods was reported to be sitting up and responding to treatment. He was taken to Charing Cross Hospital. We wish him a speedy recovery. Meanwhile the presentation was cancelled. What a race! It must be recorded as a Cambridge win - but many will sympathise with Oxford. The umpire and the Cambridge cox did magnificent jobs. Who knows what the result of a fair race between those two crews would be? There was too much wash. The Umpire's boat was a relatively low wash catamaran.

The Henley type launches made their usual contribution, but following them were some larger boats with altogether appalling wash. The time has come to take steps to reduce that wash! Bow 195cm (6ft 5in) 159: Sunday, 31st March, 2013 at 1630 Oxford won the 159th boat race by a length and a third in a time of 17 minutes 28 secs. Oxford 77, Cambridge 81 [ 2013: RESERVES ISIS by 1/3 lengths 17:51 ] Oxford won the toss and chose the Surrey station. Oxford were slightly heavier and had probably better results recently. At the start Cambridge were ahead for a few feet but the Oxford took a lead which however was not enough for them to cut the first corner and Cambridge showed a remarkable stamina in holding them. Indeed this was the whole story of the race. Only towards the end did Oxford achieve clear water enabling them to prevent Cambridge having the advantage of the final bend.

There were several exciting moments when the blades came within striking distance of each other as the coxes attempted to take advantage of the bends and force their opponents off the fastest water, but no contact occurred. Matthew Pinsent umpired the race decisively and fairly. Altogether it was a relief to see a great race without incident. The Oxford boat was named Acer in memory of the Oxford cox Acer Nethercott, who took part in the 2003, 2004 and 2005 boat races and died of brain cancer a few months previously. Bow 195cm (6ft 5in) 160: Sunday, 6th April, 2014 at 5.55pm Oxford won the 160th boat race by 11 lengths in a time of 19 minutes 8 secs. Oxford 78, Cambridge 81 [ 2014: RESERVES ISIS by 13 lengths 18:39 ] High water at Chelsea at 19:12 bst (18:12 gmt).

Tide almost at Neap level, with a reducing river flow (now down to 81 cumecs, or about a sixth of what it was at the height of the floods, and still ten or more times summer levels). The favourites Oxford won the toss and chose Surrey. They led off the start, but the less experienced Cambridge crew fought back and took a lead of a few feet. After five minutes Oxford came back and took half a length. Cambridge fought hard until Oxford's 7 blade just caught Cambridge's 2 blade and flipped it over, causing a classic crab which unseated the Cambridge 2 and nearly threw him out of the boat, breaking the rigger. After this it just became a procession as Cambridge lost their sparkle and slowly fell behind with 2 unable to contribute much. Cambridge went through the motions of appealing but the umpire Richard Phelps explained I was concerned where Oxford were, so I warned Oxford and they moved immediately. A second later I was happy where the crews were but I then saw the Cambridge bow just twitch-in towards Oxford, so I warned Cambridge. The next thing there was a slight contact but the impact was great. Cambridges view was that when the foul occurred Oxford were not on their station.

From my perspective Oxford were on their proper station; quite clearly. Contact could only have been in neutral water or at the worst Cambridge were off their station. I advised Cambridge I was overruling their appeal." I think it was a coxing incident which can hardly have changed the final result - Cambridge had already shot their bolt and the more experienced Oxford crew had responded already and were in a position to take the advantage of the coming bends. I reckon Oxford would have won by 2 or 3 lengths if that incident had not occurred. The verdict was 11 lengths. Bow Fanny Belais Rosemary Ostfield Historic moment - the Women's Boat Race held on the same course and on the same day as the Men's race. In 1866 PUNCH produced this cartoon - Boat-Race of the Future - Drifting Down to the Start-Point On Wednesday 1st April 2015 the Oxford Women's Eight sank in rough water at Putney and were returned to their boathouse by lifeboat. All were reported well and the boat was also recovered. Wind against tide produced three large waves which just swamped the boat. Cambridge won the toss and chose Surrey.

Oxford had the better start and Cambridge never quite got onto terms with them. Halfway through the race a determined Oxford spurted and left Cambridge behind. The umpire was very active in warning both boats It never seemed to me that the Cambridge boat was running in the way the Oxford boat achieved. Was it my imagination or was the wake slightly more turbulent? Could they have been too heavy for their boat? BOAT RACE RESULTS - WOMEN - Boat Race 2016: All you need to know about the Oxford and Cambridge rivalry on the Thames Boat Race 2016: All you need to know about the Oxford and Cambridge rivalry on the Thames Oxford and Cambridge university boat clubs are presented after the crew announcement in March Credit: Getty Images 27 March 2016 • 2:29pm The Boat Race: what's it all about? Since 1829 the men's rowing crews of Oxford and Cambridge have raced one another for bragging rights, becoming a famous annual contest, held since 1845 on the Championship Course from Putney to Mortlake.

The women's race, which was first rowed in Oxford in 1927 and thereafter in varying locations including twice in London, joined the men's race day in 2015. Also racing on the same day are the women's reserve crews (Osiris for Oxford and Blondie for Cambridge) and the men's reserves (Isis for Oxford and Goldie for Cambridge). The day is a private contest between two old universities, and even though their crews take part in many other regattas, the Boat Race remains the pinnacle of their season. What's all the fuss about Blues? In 1829 Oxford's first Boat Race crew, convened by Charles Wordsworth of Oxford, wore the dark blue colours of Wordsworth's college, Christ Church. The next year Cambridge put light blue ribbon on the bows of their boat as an emblem, and since then the two universities have stuck to dark and light blue as their official colours. • Boat race: Five controversial races between Oxford and Cambridge A 'full Blue' is awarded to anyone who races past the end of the Fulham Wall in the first crew of the university, a hang-over from the days when sinkings more regularly happened.

The chances of a sinking are very slim, now that crews can install in-boat pumps. When and where? This year the races are sponsored by Cancer Research UK which is also holding the Great Row to raise money for cancer research. Click the link for more information. Links to the past This year both the men's boats will be named after Blues who died last year. Oxford are naming their shell after the legendary coach and commentator Daniel Topolski , who lost his battle with cancer in February 2015. Cambridge are naming theirs after Kevin Whyman, the winning 1996-1997 Blue Boat cox and stunt pilot whose plane tragically nose-dived into the ground in a flying accident at the Carfest North festival last August. Order of play The crews will row a last light practice paddle early in the morning on an empty river, then vanish to prepare. They reappear after 1pm to do the pre-race coin tosses in front of a packed Embankment, which determines the crews racing on Middlesex (north side) or Surrey (south side) of the unmarked area of fastest stream in the river.

Oxford's women's crew row towards Hammersmith Bridge during Tideway Week training Credit: Getty Image This year the churches of All Saints and St Mary's on either side of Putney Bridge will display blue flags to indicate which crews are on which stations. The boats then go afloat about 45 minutes before their race, paddle out towards Battersea to warm up, and return to the stakeboats beside Putney Bridge just before their race. What's rowing like? Race rowing has been compared to lifting a heavy bag of potatoes from the floor to your neck 35-40 times a minute. It is an aerobic endurance sport which needs months of training and good lactic acid tolerance to cope with, and honed technique to use the oars efficiently so that the boat is accelerated rather than slowed down when they go into the water. Rowers produce most of their power from their legs, not their arms or shoulders. The Boat Race, at 17-20 minutes depending on weather, is one of the longest and hardest races in the world, particularly if the margin remains close until the end. Several rowers have fainted after completing the race. Who's racing?

All the rowers and coxes must be full-time students at the two universities, as well as serious athletes. Although the rowers must be male or female for their respective Boat Races, the coxes can be either gender. A mix of graduates and undergraduates take part, and while some have rowed for their country, others learned the sport only a few years ago at college. Boat race teams In an Olympic year it is rare to have any former medallists in the crews unless they have retired from international competition, since rowing for a Blue is incompatible with training for the Games. However, it is likely that some of those competing on Sunday will one day win medals at future Olympics. What's gone into it? The current athletes have been training virtually non-stop since September 2015, mostly six days a week, with 11-13 sessions, a mixture of land and water training. Rowing machines are used in the gym, with 2km and 5km tests a normal measure of fitness and power. They have fitted this training around their studies, as do most UK university rowers, and are able to go on training camps only in the vacations. Why do they need umpires?

The Boat Race is organised and umpired mostly by previous Blues with lots of rowing experience. On the tidal Thames no buoys can be put down to mark the two sides of the course, so the crews' fair course is determined by the umpire. Cambridge row past the Harrods Depository during Tideway Week training Credit: Getty Images The umpire in a following launch will drop a red flag to signify the start, then use a white flag to warn crews which stray off their station and risk clashing. If a collision stops the race, the umpire will decide whether or not to re-start. At the end of the race a red flag would indicate a foul and possible disqualification, while a white flag means a clean race. Former Blues also align the crews at the start, wave the finish flag and judge the race margin. Turning the air blue Following years when Boat Race coxes' live microphones have broadcast profanities to the nation, it is usual now for there to be a slight delay in transmission from the boats. Expect to hear the diminutive coxes urging their rowers on, calling for better technique, pushes for power and 'on the legs', and to stay calm when clashes threaten.

The cox is a combination of steersman, jockey, tactician, in-boat coach and cheerleader whose role allows the rowers to focus solely on rowing their best. Where to watch from The race will be covered live on the BBC, streamed on their website, and on a number of radio stations . The riverbank will attract approximately 250,000 spectators, congregating around Putney Embankment (opposite a big screen), Bishop's Park Fulham, Craven Cottage, Thames Reach, Hammersmith Bridge, Furnivall Gardens (another big screen), Chiswick Pier, Duke's Meadows and Chiswick Bridge. Many of the pubs along the route run special offers on Boat Race day. Watch out for railway works and replacement buses along the South West Trains routes in the area, although the Tube should be running as usual.

Jargon-buster Bandstand A public bandstand east of Barnes Bridge used as a landmark Barnes Bridge The fourth timing point - both crews must pass through the centre arch of Barnes railway bridge Beverley Brook A tiny stream approx two minutes into the Boat Race, often used as a landmark by commentators Black Buoy A massive half-yellow, half-black floating drum marking the end of Putney Embankment Blade A rower's term for an oar Blue Doors A house with bright blue windows on the Middlesex Bank which marks roughly the mid-point of the race Boat Can mean crew, or the vessel they row in (aka 'shell') Bow Either the prow of the boat, or the person sitting in the seat nearest the prow Bow-ball The tennis-ball sized piece of rubber fixed over the sharp bow of the boat, to prevent injuries in the case of a collision Bow-side The starboard side of the crew Catch The 'start' of the stroke when the oar enters the water - catches have to be in time or the crew will not go fast Chiswick Eyot A large island in the Thames marking approx 9-11 minutes into the race Chiswick Steps The third timing point, between Chiswick Eyot and Chiswick Pier Clashing When the

 oars become interlocked in a race, leading to anything from crabs to stoppages and accusations of fouls Crab Catching a crab is when a rower's oar becomes stuck in the water, often throwing them off their seat and/or stopping the boat suddenly Crew A boat full of rowers.

Not a team. Ever.

Crossing A point west of Chiswick Pier where the river turns back to the north again, switching the station advantage back to Middlesex Drive The part of the stroke when the legs are shoving the oar through the water Finish (Of the stroke) - the point where the oars are pulled out of the water, which must be synchronised cleanly to avoid crabs Fulham Wall The Bishop's Park wall, along which the start of the race takes place Hammersmith Bridge The second timing point in the race Harrods Repository Now Harrods Village, a large building just before Hammersmith Bridge Loom The long shaft of the oar/blade, which should not be under-water Milepost The first timing point in the race, one mile from the start Mortlake The beach where the crews will land after the finish, and where the winning coxes are ceremoniously thrown into the water Pressure How hard a rower pulls their blade through the water: full pressure means maximum effort Push A few (typically 10-15) strokes in which the crew adds extra effort, to try to get ahead of their rivals Rate Number of strokes per minute, typically 40-44 off the start and then settling to approx 33-

36 during the race, depending on wind conditions Recovery The period in the stroke when the blades are out of the water and the crew effectively resting Rhythm The ratio of time a spoon spends in the water relative to the rest time spent sliding back for the next stroke.

The more efficient the rhythm, the longer a rower can carry on working at full power Second Lamp-post The point on Hammersmith Bridge under which the coxes will try to pass for maximum stream advantage Spoon The coloured end of the oar/blade, which goes into the water Stakeboat The moored boat which holds a crew in position before the race begins, like a starting block Station The side of the river the crew is rowing on. The two stations are Middlesex (north) and Surrey (south).

Stern The back end of the boat, where the cox sits Stride A point 15-25 strokes after the start when the crews change gear to a longer, more powerful stroke rhythm which gives them a sustainable cruising speed Stroke As well as action of the the rowing stroke itself, 'stroke' can also mean the rower who leads the crew, setting the rhythm and racing rate Stroke-side The port side of the crew Surrey Bend From the Milepost to the Crossing, a stretch of often very bumpy water in which the Surrey crew has the advantage Taking water Moving ahead of the other crew so that they are in line astern and being washed down University Post A large post marking the finish at Chiswick University Stone A small obelisk marking the starting point of the race at Putney Washing down When the oars of one crew are creating 'puddles' into which the other crew has to row, if it is too far behind - this slows the second crew down considerably.

Follow the latest Telegraph Rowing news READ MORE ABOUT: Editor's Choice 19 Jan 2017, 1:53pm Boat Race - WHERE THAMES SMOOTH WATERS GLIDE Map taken from George Drinkwater's "The Boat Race" 136: March 31st, 1990 In 1990 OXFORD WON by 2¼ lengths. Time 17 minutes and 22 seconds. Oxford 66, Cambridge 69 [ 1990: Reserves GOLDIE; Isis disqualified ] Report Conditions were good but with very little tide. Cambridge won the toss and chose Surrey. Both crews started at 45 and Oxford took a small lead. But then Cambridge came back to a canvas up past the boathouses. Cambridge were then rating 38 against 36. Oxford then came back to take a canvas lead at Craven Cottage. Oxford held Cambridge out on the Fulham Bend and then turned in gaining a lead of ¾ length. At the Mile Post Oxford were 4 seconds up. Oxford then took Cambridge's water with only a few feet between them and were warned.

But Cambridge were unable to close the gap and Oxford led by 1¾ lengths at Harrods. At Hammersmith Bridge, the gap was still only 4 seconds. Oxford opened the gap to 6 seconds at Chiswick steps and then 8 seconds at Barnes Bridge. Cambridge at 36½ against 34 closed the gap a little as Oxford won by 7 seconds. 137: March 30th, 1991 In 1991 OXFORD WON by 4¼ lengths. Time 16 minutes and 59 seconds. Oxford 67, Cambridge 69 [ 1991: Reserves GOLDIE by 4 lengths 17:38 ] Report Conditions were good with a good tide. Oxford won the toss and chose Surrey. Cambridge at 40 against 42 gained a small lead, and half a length as they passed the boathouses. At Craven Steps Cambridge spurted and opened their lead to ¾ length, but then Oxford slowly came back at them and reduced the lead to 1 second at the Mile.

Oxford pushed just before Harrods and at Hammersmith Bridge Oxford led by 2 seconds. Using the bend Oxford opened their lead to 5 seconds at Chiswick Steps, and 12 seconds at Barnes Bridge. Cambridge came home at 36, but Oxford raised to 38 and won by 13 seconds. 138: April 4th, 1992 In 1992 OXFORD WON by 1¼ lengths. Time 17 minutes and 44 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 69 [ 1992: Reserves GOLDIE by 3.25 lengths 17:44 equalling Oxford's time! Might be down to conditions ] Report A strong north east wind was easing, with a moderate tide. There was some rough water in the Crabtree Reach. Oxford won the toss and chose Middlesex. After difficulties with the stake boats Cambridge led by a few feet but then Oxford had a lead of 1 second at the Mile Post. Cambridge had a lead of 1 second at Hammersmith Bridge.

They opened this to ¾ length along Chiswick Reach, but then Oxford came back to level at Chiswick Steps and 2 seconds ahead at Barnes Bridge. Oxford won by 4 seconds. This made 16 Oxford wins out of 17 races and brought Oxford tantalisingly close to parity. Only one more win would do it! ... 139: March 27th, 1993 In 1993 CAMBRIDGE WON by 3½ lengths. Time 17 minutes. Oxford 68, Cambridge 70 [ 1993: Reserves GOLDIE by 9 lengths 17:05 faster than Oxford ] Report The conditions were good and the tide reasonable. Cambridge won the toss and chose Surrey. After some difficulty at the start Cambridge were the faster away and led by ½ length at the end of Fulham Wall. At the mile Cambridge were five seconds ahead and at Harrods they had 2½ lengths. At Hammersmith Bridge Cambridge led by 8 seconds. Oxford rating 2 higher than Cambridge were unable to come back.

At Chiswick Steps Cambridge led by 9 seconds and by 12 seconds at Barnes Bridge. Cambridge won by 11 seconds. Bow M Haycock 140: March 26th, 1994 In 1994 CAMBRIDGE WON by 6½ lengths. Time 18 minutes and 9 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 71 [ 1994: Reserves GOLDIE by 13 lengths 18:27 close to Oxford's time ] Report Cambridge were stroked by their President Kingsley Poole on bow side. Race day was sunny with a sharp north-west wind. Oxford won the toss and chose Middlesex. Oxford started well and were a few feet in the lead. But Cambridge had ¾ length lead by the Black Buoy, and were clear at the Mile. Cambridge had 8 seconds at Hammersmith Bridge and 16 seconds at Chiswick Steps. Oxford were still striking 36 and then at the finish Cambridge raised their rate to 40 and won by 6½ lengths.

141: Saturday, April 1st, 1995 In 1995 CAMBRIDGE WON by 4 lengths. Time 18 minutes and 4 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 72 [ 1995: Reserves GOLDIE by 14 lengths 18:29 ] Report A sunny day with a moderate west wind and a moderate tide. Cambridge won the toss and chose Surrey. Oxford went off fast and led by a few feet. Despite the bend against them Cambridge came back to level and led by ¼ length at Craven Cottage. Cambridge were 1 second ahead at the Mile Post. Oxford were warned for their steering up to Harrods. Cambridge spurted at Harrods and led by 4 seconds at Hammersmith Bridge. Cambridge with the inside of the Surrey bend had a lead of over a length as they entered the Chiswick Reach. Cambridge slowly drew away to a lead of 9 seconds at Chiswick Steps. At the crossing they had 3 lengths and 13 seconds at Barnes Bridge. Cambridge went on to win by 12 seconds.

Bow R S Slatford 142: April 6th, 1996 In 1996 CAMBRIDGE WON by 2¾ lengths. Time 16 minutes and 58 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 73 [ 1996: Reserves GOLDIE by 11 lengths 17:02 faster than Oxford! ] Report Cambridge won the toss and chose Surrey. Oxford were slightly up at the start, but then Cambridge came back and took a few feet after 1 minute. There were warnings from the umpire. Cambridge still had a slight lead at Beverly Brook, rating 2 strokes higher than Oxford. On the Middlesex bend, the blades were so close that both crews were warned. At the Mile Post Cambridge were just half a second ahead. In the Crabtree Reach Oxford were twice warned for boring Cambridge towards Surrey and out of the tide. At Harrods Cambridge spurted and at Hammersmith Bridge were 2 seconds ahead. Cambridge kept pushing and moved to clear water, then 4 seconds ahead at Chiswick Steps. Oxford kept trying but Cambridge slowly moved out to win by 2¼ lengths.

Bow K Whyman 143: March 29th, 1997 In 1997 CAMBRIDGE WON by 2 lengths. Time 17 minutes and 38 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 74 [ 1997: Reserves GOLDIE by 6.5 lengths 17:32 6 seconds, 2 lengths faster than winner! This might to some extent be the result of the slowing caused by the close courses in the main race? ] The wind was a moderate north-west. Oxford won the toss and chose Surrey. Oxford striking the higher rate took a lead of a few feet lead. The umpire warned both crews throughout much of the race against taking each other's water. This is the cox's greatest accolade - That the steering was so competitive that regular warnings were received - but that nothing either disqualified or damaged either boat. On the tideway in the boatrace there is probably only one exact position of maximum advantage and two boats trying to occupy it. Within a few yards it is often difficult to say exactly where it is.

So the two anxious coxes, desperate to give their boat any advantage that can be had, have to conduct an ongoing unspoken and very physical negotiation in which the fair outcome is that the boats are symetrically either side of the best position. Since the best position is unknown and the precise tidal direction at each bend varies with the tide (if the tide is slack cut the corner, if it is fierce go wide) and that to be perfectly honest the motivation of each cox is not exactly that there should be a fair outcome - but rather the most advantageous for their own boat short of committing a foul - it is no wonder that there are tensions. Whether warnings help is another matter. A further complication which is not generally perceived is that eights steer somewhere around their middle. Thus two parallel eights with blades an inch or two apart, cannot separate further without first bringing their sternmost blades closer! The cox in that situation cannot just turn out, all that can be done is to maintain position, edging out fractionally - and wind and tide and random effects from the crew - not to mention the other boat - may defeat the best of intentions. And of course the cox's judgement may well be that it is the other boat that should be moving!

Oxford took a half length at Beverly Brook but Cambridge came back on them and the crews were level at the Mile. They were still level at Harrods and then Oxford began to ease ahead reaching Hammersmith Bridge with a 1 second lead. Cambridge held on round the outside of the bend and at Chiswick Steps they were level again. At the crossing Cambridge began to ease ahead and at Barnes Bridge had a 4 second lead. Cambridge won by 6 seconds. 144: March 28th, 1998 In 1998 CAMBRIDGE WON by 3 lengths. Record Time 16 minutes and 19 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 75 [ 1998: Reserves ISIS by 2.5 lengths 17:02 ] Report Oxford won the toss and chose Middlesex. Oxford showing slightly ahead. Around the bend Oxford's favour Cambridge held them. The two boats were continually warned and there were blade clashes without any apparent damage. At the Mile the boats were level. Cambridge rating 34 had a length at Hammersmith Bridge.

Cambridge then raised to 36 and took another ¼ length in about a minute. With clear water they took take their own line and at the Eyot were 1½ lengths ahead. At Chiswick Steps the Cambridge lead was 5 seconds and at Barnes Bridge 6 seconds. At the Bandstand the distance was a definite 2 lengths and this was maintained through Barnes Bridge (Cambridge 13.32, Oxford 13.38) where both crews were substantially under the previous best time. Cambridge maintained this to the finish winning by six seconds in 16 minutes 19 seconds, 26 seconds faster than the previous 1984 record. Bow A J Potts 145: April 3rd, 1999 In 1999 CAMBRIDGE WON by 3½ lengths. Time 16 minutes and 41 seconds. Oxford 68, Cambridge 76 [ 1999: Reserves GOLDIE by 1.5 lengths 16:58 ] Report There was little wind and a good strong tide. Cambridge won the toss and raced on Surrey.

After a difficult start in the strong tide Cambridge took a small lead. Oxford came back on them and as the boats were level Oxford were warned and had to steer away after a clash. Oxford pushed again but Cambridge took 1 second by the Mile Post. Cambridge eased ahead and had ¾ length at Harrods, but they had come rather wide from the Surrey station and were warned. At Hammersmith Bridge Cambridge led by 1 length. Once they had clear water Cambridge moved out and took a lead of 2¼ lengths at Chiswick Steps, and 3 lengths at Barnes Bridge. Cambridge went on to win by 3½ lengths. Bow Where To Watch The Boat Race In Richmond Borough « Totally Richmond Where To Watch The Boat Race In Richmond Borough By Jonathan, on March 29th, 2013 To the disappointment of many tourists, the race does not start from Oxford and end in Cambridge, but runs 4.2 miles from Putney to Mortlake. And as you can see from the map below, more than half of the race takes place on the River alongside Richmond Borough – from Hammersmith Bridge to Chiswick Bridge.

The race starts at 4.30pm and the two boats take about 18 minutes to reach the finish. Hammersmith Bridge is an excellent viewpoint in both directions, but it gets incredible busy so the chances are that you’ll only be able to see in one direction. Arguably its more exciting to face Putney, but Richmond loyalists would only ever watch upstream towards Mortlake. Based on history, the first boat to reach this point has an 80% chance of winning, although in the last 6 years its actually been 50/50. There’s also going to be a big screen displaying the race in Furnivall Gardens on the Hammersmith bank with entertainment, food and drink. St Paul’s School Boathouse is possibly the closest you’ll get to the competitors on the course, to a point where you could find yourself standing in the water as they pass. I’ve never been there but I think that its public access. And of course this is where the 2012 race was disrupted when Trenton Oldfield put on a wetsuit and swam between the boats.

As Lonsdale Road becomes The Terrace and then Mortlake High Street there are plenty of places to stand by the side of the road and watch – and many do this with a beer in hand. If you do choose to stand there please be careful on both sides of the path – the river and the road. Barnes Railway Bridge should be a good viewing point towards Hammersmith (as the footbridge is only on one side of the railway tracks) but we think it’s closed on Race Day – probably because it connects to Duke’s Meadows where many watch from the other side. There are a few access points down to the River just before the Stag Brewery. The Ship pub has an amazing location by the finish line and as you can imagine is bursting at the seams from the moment the doors open. I’m writing this on Friday so I suggest that you head that way now. But another good view of the finish is definitely Chiswick Bridge. As with everywhere on the route it gets very busy, but its probably the least accessible bridge on the route by public transport so if you’re local you have an advantage.

Make sure you face the right way as the boats finish before they go under the Bridge, and stay around for a few minutes after the race as it’s traditional for the winning team to throw their cox into the water – a great photo opportunity. Finally, whatever the weather forecast – dress very warmly. March 29th, 2013 | Category: news Leave a Reply

Question: Apart from Hammersmith, which other Thames bridge does the Boat Race course pass under?
Answer: BARNES