Cambridge men regain Varsity Boat Race crown as they defeat Oxford in narrow victory after an inspired bit of coxing as they overcome last year’s disappointment
- Oxford won the race last year and had gone into this year’s edition as favourites
- Cambridge cox produced inspired bit of tactical thinking to put them into lead
- Men’s victory ensured it was a Cambridge clean sweep in this year’s Boat Races
Cambridge powered to their fourth victory in five Boat Races with a gutsy effort against a resilient Oxford crew.
The winners had rudder issues before the race and both blue boats earned early warnings from umpire Tony Reynolds as Oxford, with the weight advantage, pulled ahead.
A bold move from Cambridge cox Jasper Parish paid off when, judging the conditions, he decided to steer his crew closer to the bank in Fulham hoping to find friendlier waters.
That allowed Cambridge to take a half-length’s lead, and while Oxford would not let their opponents get away, it turned out to be an inspired decision from Parish as Cambridge carried their advantage over the finish line.
The end of the race was marred by Oxford crew member Felix Drinkall being carried away on a stretcher having collapsed.
It was reported afterwards that he was conscious as he was taken to hospital for further checks.
Cambridge put in an assured performance as they overcame last year’s defeat to claim a fourth victory in five years
Cox Jasper Parish made the bold decision to take Cambridge’s boat over towards Craven Cottage – which paid dividends
Oxford toiled but could not close the length-gap that had opened up between them and Cambridge
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