It took Cambridge 17 minutes 35 seconds to see off Oxford’s challenge, in what was a heavily contested race in light of recent years.
Cherwell’s photographers were out in force to capture the moments that decided who would win a battle that began months before in the early mornings, in the gym and on the water.
In the early afternoon the crowds begin to gather at the Putney boat houses.
Oxford’s Chief Coach Sean Bowden and President Sjoerd Hamburger exchange a few words on the balcony of the Westminster boat house.
Dark Blue cox Adam Barhamand soaking up the buzzing atmosphere and getting in the zone.
Hamburger inspects the Penny Farthing that will be used to decide what side each university will start from.
And is joined by Cambridge President Deaglan McEachern of the USA.
Isis is Oxford’s much forgotten reserve boat, who race Cambridge’s Goldie before the Blues take on one another. They win their toss and choose the more favoured Surrey station.
Amongst the crowds are many Old Boys, including Olympic champion Matthew Pinsent who rowed in the Dark Blue boat in the early 1990s.
Both crews line up for the press.
Isis boat first and head off in the direction of Putney bridge to warm up. Stroke man Alec Dent is one of two returning members of Oxford’s 2009 squad.
16:00 Isis explode off the start against Cambridge’s Goldie and infront of growing crowds.
Goldie finish just over a length ahead of Isis. Photo: Shaun Thein
Attention now draws to the Blue boats, who rower emerging from their respective boat house one by one. Above: Oxford’s 2 man Martin Walsh of Green Templeton College.
Spectators on Putney Bridge, look down on the start line. Gloomy clouds make way for light blue skies, but will the rivers run Dark Blue?
Crews settle on the start line. Coxes raise their hands to signal they are not ready for the ‘Go.’
The first half of the race and there is little to separate the two crews.
Umpire issues a warning for Cambridge to stay on their station.
By Hammersmith Bridge Oxford have a slight advantage.
And are cheered on by supporters who have found all manner of viewing spots. Photo: Sonali Campion
Cambridge begin to close the gap in the second half of the Surrey bend, keeping the stroke rate high they extend to a gap of a length as the river bends to their advantage.
Delighted Old Boy Tabs cheer on from the following launches.
As Cambridge cross the finish line first, Tab cox Ted Randolph kneels up in celebration.
The hurting of the Oxford boat is plain for all to see, as the cheers from the Cambridge boat echo in the arches of Chiswick Bridge.
The Cambridge victory was no easy feat. Tactical chunder Mr. President?
The day comes to a close as Cambridge lift the trophy. Photo: Shaun Thein
And their cox gets a soaking. Photo: Shaun Thein
The result brings the overall statistics to 80 victories to Cambridge and 75 to Oxford. So whilst the Dark Blues went away with no victories this year, we’re certain that the crowds will gather again next year to see the clash of these intellectual Titans.
