Durham University have beaten their rivals Newcastle University to win all four events in the 12th annual Tyne-Wear Boat Race.
The 1,800m course along the River Tyne was lined with spectators, who watched Durham row their way to victory, taking first place in the Freshmen’s Eights, Freshwomen’s Eights, Senior Men’s Eights and Senior Women’s eights.
Colin Blackburn, who is chairman of the boat race executive committee, said that Newcastle had a “difficult task” in facing Durham “whose rowers are the best in the country.” However, he was also keen to emphasise that it had been a great day, particularly due to the sunny weather, which ensured a large turnout. He said: “It has been a very good day. The fine weather has brought a lot of people out to watch the University Boat Race, and it didn't disappoint.”
Professor Chris Higgins, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, was keen to congratulate his winning team. He said: “Our students are truly remarkable in the sport of rowing, and I am very proud of them. We have won the British Universities rowing championship for the last four years, and of course they have represented Durham spectacularly well here today.”
Rob Stark, President of Durham University Boat Club, was also delighted with the win. He said: “It's fantastic to have won all four races. I'm particularly pleased that the Freshmen and Freshwomen won their races, because it signifies that we have a very bright future. The results are testament to the strength and depth we have in our squad, and I'm absolutely thrilled with their performances.”
Professor Chris Brink, Vice-Chancellor of Newcastle University, was attending his first boat race. Although his team lost out to Durham, he was keen to congratulate both parties. He said: “I would like to congratulate all of the rowers who have taken part today. These are the top two rowing universities in the country, and so there is certainly no shame in coming second. This has been a most enjoyable event, and I am pleased to see so many people participating in the spectacle.”
Dan Cupit, who is president of Newcastle University Boat Club, was determined that his team would do better next year. He said: “Obviously we're disappointed, but that's the way it goes, and we'll be back next year more determined than ever.”
It’s not the first time that Durham University’s Boat Club have managed to win all the races against their rivals. The team also managed to do this in the 1997 race, which was the first of this annual event, and again in 2004.
Source:
BBC
Newcastle University