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The 157th Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

On March 26th 2011 the world will once again cast it's attention towards the Thames River in London for one of the most historic sporting events on the globe. The Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race is a hard-fought battle of two university teams vying for the title in a race that stretches from Putney to Mortlake.

 

As things stand, Cambridge have the statistical advantage of 80 wins to Oxford's 75. However, Oxford have won 4 of the past 6 races, and were narrowly defeated by Cambridge in last year's event.

 

The race is expected to be watched by approximately 250,000 spectators gathered along the banks of the Thames, as well the other millions who will tune in across the world to cheer on their favourite university.

 

Started in 1829 by two Oxbridge friends, Charles Merivale (Cambridge) and Charles Wordsworth (Oxford), the race has developed from its modest beginnings to become a global event steeped in tradition. The race has been a constant presence ever since, with the exception of the First World War.

 

The original route of the race had to be changed just six years in due to the crowding at Westminster. The starting point was subsequently moved six miles upstream to the village of Putney in south London. The teams pass several landmarks en route to the finishing line, from the Putney Bridge to the Thames Wharf, and on passed the Hammersmith Bridge the Chiswick Pier.

 

This year's race will no doubt be as exciting as those which have come before. If you are planning on getting to the heart of the action there are various viewpoints from which you cheer on the blue boats as they row by. Alternatively, there are a number of large screens which display the live action at Bishop's Park, Fulham and Furnival Gardens, Hammersmith.

 

For those who are planning to make a day – or a weekend – of it, be sure to find yourself a good <a href="http://www.minthotel.com/london/london-hotels.htm">london hotel</a> close to the action. Although, with the convenience of the London underground you will never be far from the action. If you are travelling to your viewing area via the London Underground, various stops such as Putney Bridge, Hammersmith and Ravenscourt Park will provide you with easy access to a series of great vantage points.

 

So, whether you're a Cambridge or Oxford fan, the 157th Boat Race is sure to provide a fantastic day out for all the family. With only 33 days till the race, there isn't much time left to get your transport and accomodation in order.

 

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This entry was posted on Sunday, April 25th, 2010 at 6:57 pm and is filed under bedding. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.