Reading boat race will be an oarsome spectacle – University of Reading
21 February 2005
The University's prestigious annual head of the river race is due to be held on the River Thames in Reading on Saturday 26 February. Olympic coxless quadruple sculls silver medallist Debbie Flood, who is studying Physiology and Biochemistry at the University, will be presenting the prizes. Over 2000 competitors and spectators are expected to enjoy this year's race, as the quality of entrants promises to be the highest in the event's history. Oxford Boat club have entered the crew competing in the University Boat Race in London; their only public race before they battle it out against Cambridge. The world famous Leander club will also be there in force, having entered three boats. The race has been run by the students of Reading University Boat Club since 1935 and is not only the largest student-run public sporting event in the country, but also the fourth oldest and largest head of the river race. In 2004, the event attracted over 140 crews from clubs, schools and universities, but that huge entry is set to be eclipsed this year, with a record number of 196 crews challenging for the prizes. Senior Reading rower Jonathan Radcliffe says the local public can look forward to some fantastic racing. "The event is the perfect practice run for the crews looking to do well at the Eights Head of the River this year. The calibre of entries this year is astonishing and for those coming to watch they'll witness the very best rowing talent this country has to offer." The first race starts at 11am at the Roebuck Ferry Crossing, Tilehurst, and finishes opposite the Reading University Boathouses in Caversham, a distance of around 4.25 kilometres. The main prizes include: The Roe Challenge Cup awarded to the fastest crew. Previous winners include Isis BC, Oxford Brookes BC, University of London BC and Leander Club. The Coronation Cup awarded to the fastest Senior III crew. Previous winners include Pangbourne College, Imperial College and Nottingham University BC. The Bourne Cup awarded to the fastest school crew. Previous winners include Radley College BC, St Paul's BC and Eton College BC. The Mackintosh Trophy awarded to the fastest British University crew. Previous winners include Oxford Brookes BC and Imperial College BC. End For more information about the event, contact Will Rand, the Director of Rowing at the University of Reading. Mob: 07989 972 594 Email: w.rand@reading.ac.uk Website: http://www.planetrowing.com/RUHORR/RUHORRhome.htm