Oxford capture 159th Boat Race

Oxford captured the 159th Boat Race with a length-and-a-third victory over Cambridge on the River Thames. Having lost last year's re-started race, the heavier Oxford crew won the toss, chose the southern Surrey station, and built an immediate lead. The Dark Blues completed victory in 17 minutes 27 seconds, their ninth win in the last 14 editions of the race, to cut Cambridge's overall lead to 81-77. It followed victories in this year's reserve and women's races for Oxford. Ibracing conditions, Oxford, who outweighed their opponents by 757.6kg to 736.4kg, never trailed on the 6.8km course, but Cambridge remained in contention with a spirited performance. Oxford led by two-thirds of a length past Chiswick Steps but just before the river began to turn into Cambridge's favour the Dark Blues produced the decisive push. That effort allowed Oxford to open clear water and they switched across to the optimum racing line to establish a commanding position they were not to relinquish.