In the worst possible conditions, Oxford University lost to Oxford Brookes on the London Tideway as they build to next month’s Boat Race, writes John Wiggins

The two universities had not met for a fixture since 1994.

In that time, Brookes have established themselves as one of the few student clubs capable of giving Oxbridge crews a competitive race.

Against the Dark Blues in a fierce headwind, they set off at a much more measured, yet competitive pace than they had against Cambridge three weeks before.

Brookes allowed Oxford a small lead in the first mile before their more solid rhythm took control.


With repeated warnings from the Cambridge umpire, Simon Harris, to Brookes cox Harry Brightmore, they had moved out to a two-thirds of a length lead approaching Hammersmith Bridge before a ‘crab’ in the Brookes stern allowed Oxford back on terms.

As they rounded the bend almost level into roughest water, the crews were confronted by a dozen or more sailing dinghies which prematurely halted the race at the start of Chiswick Eyot.

Within a minute, another stray sailing boat blocked the path. On the re-start with a small amount of the Surrey bend still in their favour, Oxford leapt a length ahead.

With the bend now turning Brookes’ way and with Oxford struggling in rougher water, Brookes eased past for a small lead and showed no mercy to finish more two lengths ahead.

After this, Cambridge will be seen as favourites for the Boat Race.

Brookes coach, Henry Bailhache-Webb said: “To come out on top against a programme that is unbeaten in fours years is a testament to the hard work all our Brookes athletes are putting in.”

Oxford head coach Sean Bowden was disappointed, but is grateful that his relatively inexperienced crew will have learned much from the encounter.