But poor conditions mean slow winning time
Choppy waters and high winds gave Oxford the upper hand against rivals Cambridge on Sunday’s boat race.
Although Cambridge began in front as the two boats pulled away from Hammersmith Bridge, Oxford soon fought back.
Oxford and their cox Nick Brodie gained revenge for last year's defeat on the Thames by beating Cambridge in the 154th Boat Race by six lengths.
Although finishing 22 seconds ahead of Cambridge, Oxford's time of 20 minutes, 52 seconds was the slowest winning time since 1947.
Cambridge cox Rebecca Dowbiggin said that the Cambridge team’s relative youth and inexperience could have told against them in the race.
An overcast day did not deter spectators to the race, who enjoyed free events in both Bishop's Park and Furnivall Gardens.
At both parks there was a refreshments tent, food stalls and a big screen, courtesy of the boat race’s official sponsor Xchanging.
Bishop’s Park also hosted a free family festival, with a children’s play area, inflatable assault course, climbing wall and circus skills workshop.
April 4, 2008