Their First Victory Since 1923

Northern Advocate, 25 March 1937, Page 8

Their First Victory Since 1923

(Received 11.30 a.m.) LONDON, March 24. Oxford won the ’Varsity boat race against Cambridge after a magnificent contest. The race was the best for years. Cambridge had the advantage of the Surrey side. After a false start, the crews rowed neck and neck. Cambridge was a canvas ahead at Fulham, but the boats were level at Craven Steps. Oxford led by a quarter of a length at the mile post. There was little difference between them at Harrods and at the two miles distance, but Cambridge was just ahead at Chiswick Eyot, after which Oxford drew level and , then went out with a clear lead at Barnes Bridge, and officially won by three lengths. The time was 22m 395, the slowest since 1877. Despite the gruelling race, neither crew was over-distressed at the finish. Oxford sat up boldly in the flush of victory, which was hailed with immense enthusiasm. In the greatest out-of-term scene in Oxford for years, .supporters performed a victory dance in the streets when the news came through. , It was the first time in history that the Oxford crew used swivel rowlocks and their first victory since 1923, Cambridge having had 13 successive wins. Tlie Cambridge crew averaged 12st s|lbs., and Oxford 12st 13|lbs. Today was the 89th boat race between the universities. Of these. Cambridge has won 47 and Oxford 41. The race in 1887 was a dead heat. The weather was cold, dry and bright and there was the usual huge crowds on the banks of the Thames.