Cambridge produced a record-winning margin in the 61st Isis vs Goldie Men's Reserve Race, crossing the line 19 lengths clear of Oxford in a time of 18 minutes and 11 seconds. The result is the largest winning margin since men's reserve racing began in 1965.
The third race of the day unfolded in some of the most demanding conditions the Tideway could offer. A strong south-south-westerly provided a tail-cross wind along the Putney to Hammersmith stretch, but that assistance gave way to a wind-against-tide headwind through the middle and closing sections of the course.
Oxford won the coin toss and took the Surrey station, leaving Cambridge with Middlesex.
The opening exchanges were tense, with both crews battling for the optimal line down the Putney embankment. Umpire Kath Finucane warned Oxford twice passing the Duke's Head. With the crews still level at the London Rowing Club flagpole both were warned, and Oxford received a final warning at Vesta before the two boats separated and a clash was narrowly avoided.
Having been level at the Black Buoy, Cambridge began to inch ahead from Barn Elms. Passing the Mile Post they held a two-length lead, a margin of 6 seconds, and that gap kept growing. By Hammersmith Bridge, Oxford were tucked in almost four lengths behind.
Conditions from the Eyot onwards pushed both crews to their technical limits. Oxford fought hard but were forced to drop their rate to 32 as they worked their blades through the bumpy water. Rounding the bend to Barnes Bridge both crews had to move from the sheltered inside of the bend to steer through the middle arch, with white caps and spray making swamping a genuine risk.
Cambridge crossed the line in 18 minutes and 11 seconds. Oxford regrouped after the worst of the water, put in a final push, and finished in 19 minutes and 8 seconds.
