'VARSITY BOAT RACE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIV, Issue 73, 26 March 1923, Page 5

'VARSITY BOAT RACE.

A WIN FOR OXFORD. AFTER PUNISHING RAGE.

LONDON", March 25. Oxford won the University boat race. Cambridge was slightly favoured on the eve of the race. More than usual interest centred in the event owing to the fine trial form of the crews. It is estimated that 750,000 people watched the race. Ideal rowing weather prevailed and the river was very smooth; n slight wind flattened the tide. Oxford used the old boat. Both crews were all out early in the race, and the pace never slackened. At the end both showed the effects of a punishing rare. Oxford won the toss and chose the Surrey shore. An excellent start was made, the crews rowing 38 and increasing to 40 to the minute. Cambridge led in the first half-mile, but Oxford reached the first mile post in 2575, a quarter of a length ahead. Cambridge spurted strongly, and Oxford replied, nnd led by half a length ai. Hammersmith Bridge, quickly increasing to a length, and leading by two lengths at the threemile post. Cambridge improved near

Devonshire meadows, where Oxford was compelled to return to the Surrey side. All along to Chiswiek Oxford was rowing strongly and maintained the lead easily. Combridae afterwards made a gTent finishing burst from Barnes Bridge, challenging gallantly, but ineffectively.

Oxford won by three-quarters of a , length in 20m 50s.—(A. and N.Z.) I