The Boat Race 1996

Umpired by a former Blue, Mike Sweeney, Cambridge won by 2+3⁄4 lengths in the second-fastest time in the history of the race.

Oxford coach Dan Topolski suggested that part of the appeal was that the contest was "absolutely amateur" but still "represents quality".

[8] Former Oxford Blue and Olympic gold medallist Jonny Searle agreed, calling the Boat Race "a unique experience".

[8] Both Topolski and Searle predicted a close race; Cambridge coach Robin Williams agreed: "We've got to accord Oxford some respect.

"[10] The 250 officers from Wandsworth Police lining the embankments were able to replace their traditional helmets for peaked caps for the first time, in order to discourage members of the crowd from removing them and throwing them into the river.

[11] The race was sponsored for the tenth consecutive year by Beefeater Gin, and umpired by former Cambridge Blue Mike Sweeney.

[5] Cambridge won the 51st Women's Boat Race by four lengths in a time of 6 minutes and 12 seconds, their seventh victory in eight years.

The Championship Course along which the Boat Race is contested