The Cambridge Men’s crew, including three Hughesians, completed a clean sweep in the Cancer Research UK Boat Races over the weekend.
Even though Cambridge were the favourites going into the race, both crews had clean starts, with Oxford taking the initial lead. As the crews settled into their race rhythms, Cambridge managed to close the gap and seize the lead along the Putney boathouses.
Cambridge displayed some very strong rowing, and although Oxford attempted to recover, the light blue crew managed to build on their lead and create an advantage of over one length coming around the first little Fulham elbow.
The crew that included Hughesians James Letten (3), Dara Alizadeh (4) and Finn Meeks (6) rowed by Hammersmith Bridge with a remarkable lead over Oxford as Hughes supporters who gathered at The Old Ship pub cheered on the river bank.
Cambridge continued to move away from Oxford and disappeared into the distance, crossing the finish line in a time of 17:51 with a verdict of 3 lengths. It was a well-earned triumph for the victorious Cambridge crew, that was celebrated on and off the river by the rowers and supporters.
Dara commented: ‘It’s been a long year of training, but I’m really proud of these guys, and especially Steve our coach. Everyone made such a commitment, and I’m overjoyed that it paid off!’
On the CRUK Boat Race website, Chief Coach Steve Trapmore commented on the victory: ‘They’re an incredible group of guys with so much drive and commitment. They executed the race plan to perfection and I’m so proud to have coached them.’
The Cambridge crews; Goldie, Blondie, CUWBC and CUBC have definitely earned bragging rights this year. Congratulations to the light blue cohort.
The CUBC Men’s Blue Boat, including three Hughesians, celebrates after their victory at the 2018 Boat Race.
Hughes Hall rowers Finn Meeks, James Letten and Dara Alizadeh with Chief Coach Steve Trapmore who is a Senior Member at Hughes Hall.
