The 2025 Oxford-Cambridge Women’s Boat Race had a unique South African touch, thanks to the role of Jack Nicholas, the coxswain for Cambridge.
Nicholas, who holds dual South African and British citizenship, steered the Light Blues to yet another triumph on the River Thames.
This victory marked an important milestone, as Cambridge continues to dominate the race, clinching their eighth consecutive win.
A Historic Win for Cambridge
Sunday’s race, the 79th edition of the Women’s Boat Race, saw Cambridge extend their lead over rivals Oxford to a 49-30 advantage in the overall standings.
Cambridge has been on a remarkable winning streak, having now won the last eight races.
As the boat crossed the finish line, Nicholas, along with his teammates, celebrated in style, with the traditional dunking into the Thames.
Who is Jack Nicholas?
Jack Nicholas’s connection to rowing goes beyond his athletic achievements.
In a recent interview, he revealed that his earliest sporting inspiration was none other than South African rugby star Handré Pollard.
Nicholas, who is currently studying MEng Engineering at Cambridge, had a clear passion for both the technical and social aspects of rowing.
He began coxing in his first year at university, and it was the perfect fit for someone of his stature.
Nicholas is particularly fond of the early morning training sessions, which help structure his day, and he enjoys the camaraderie among rowers.
He also has a playful side, noting that rowing is the only sport where it’s acceptable to wear a “zephyr,” a type of jacket, something he’s quite passionate about.
The Boat Race Course and What to Expect
The historic Boat Race takes place along the Championship Course on the River Thames.
Crews begin at Putney Bridge and race upstream for 6.8 kilometers to the finish line, which lies just before Chiswick Bridge.
Along the way, rowers pass iconic landmarks, including Craven Cottage stadium and Fuller’s Brewery.
Since 1845, this route has been the traditional setting for the race, with only a few exceptions in its long history.
The race is always timed carefully to fit the tide, university schedules, and other major London events.
In a quirky bit of history, the 1912 race was interrupted when both boats sank, forcing a re-run the following week.
Race Day Details and Predictions
The 2025 Boat Race will be held on Sunday, April 13, with the women’s race scheduled to start at 14:21 SA time, followed by the men’s race at 15:21 SA time.
Both races will be closely followed by spectators along the banks of the Thames and millions more watching on television.
Cambridge is the favorite to win both the men’s and women’s events this year, continuing their dominance in the event.
Crews for the 2025 Boat Race
The 2025 women’s race will feature strong crews from both universities.
For Cambridge, Jack Nicholas will lead his team, which includes Samy Morton (Stroke), Tash Morrice, Claire Collins, Carys Earl, Annie Wertheimer, Sophia Hahn, Gemma King, and Katy Hempson (Bow).
The Oxford team will be led by Cox Daniel Orton and includes Heidi Long (Stroke), Kyra Delray, Annie Anezakis, Sarah Marshall, Alexia Lowe, Tessa Haining, Lilli Freischem, and Sarah Polson (Bow).
The men’s race will be just as competitive, with Cambridge’s Ollie Boyne (Cox) leading a strong crew against Oxford’s Tobias Bernard (Cox).
The Cambridge men’s team includes Douwe de Graaf (Stroke), Simon Hatcher, James Robson, and more.
Looking Ahead to Another Historic Race
This year’s race continues the long tradition of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, one of the oldest and most prestigious sporting events in the world.
With Cambridge once again the favorite, it’s sure to be a thrilling spectacle for fans both in person and across the globe.
Have you ever watched the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race live? Let us know your thoughts and join the conversation!