Blue Blood: a history of the world-famous Oxbridge rivalry

The Boat Race may have relocated from London to Cambridgeshire this year. But the rivalry still runs deep...

The Boat Race is back — but not as we know. Returning to our waters in these strange times, the traditionally West London-based rowing race has decamped to an eerily straight stretch of the Ouse in Cambridge in 2021, largely due to a crumbling Hammersmith Bridge and rules around social distancing.

Which means there will be none of the crazed hollering, warm Prosecco and overly sporty sunglasses of yesteryear; nor we will hear the famous — if vaguely non PC — Oxfordian cry of “I’d rather be a leper than a Tab”, or Cambridge’s own retort “Shove your Dreaming Spires up your arse” (both sung, by the way, to the tune of “She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain.”)

This article is for Clubhouse members only.

Gentlemen's Journal is happy to partner with The Prince’s Trust RISE campaign, which is working to create a network of young adults aged between 21-45, who are passionate about social mobility. You can become a Prince’s Trust Riser by donating just £20 per month to the scheme.
Get Involved

Further reading