The Boat Race 1842

In a race substantially interrupted by river traffic, Oxford beat Cambridge by a distance of 4+1⁄2 lengths.

[3] A challenge from their captain, John Ridley, was then sent to Leander Club, whose reply bemoaned the fact that they had insufficient numbers to provide an eight, suggesting a four instead.

[6][7] The umpire for the race was W. H. Harrison, Commodore of the Royal Thames Yacht Club.

Although Oxford made the better start, Cambridge pulled ahead and led until their course was diverted by river traffic including a steamer and a lighter, allowing the Dark Blues to retake the lead.

Between the National Penitentiary and Wandsworth, according to MacMichael "they were not once free from the swell of the steamers" but continued to extend their lead.