1 mins
Sean Bowden
Chief Coach, OUBC
Every Boat Race campaign has a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This year the coaching team had to bring a very diverse group of athletes together, and find an efficient compatibility to their rowing. It takes time, and the squad had their ups and down but kept pushing towards that goal. They are a good, hard-working group who understand the importance of getting better, and reaching the right standard. Finding that standard was the fundamental challenge as most of the team have not previously performed at this level.
We have made significant progress. The final run-in provides a good opportunity to reinforce the exact things required by the crew in the race. Every single session counts. We will try to lift to a higher level, and hone their tactical understanding. It can be a little nerve-wracking but largely it is an exciting time.
Looking to the race, I doubt either side has an obvious or huge advantage. Perhaps, one year in ten a crew might clear off before the Mile Post, but most races are a lot closer, for a lot longer. Certainly, we are preparing for a tough, tight race. On the day, if both sides have good rows, I expect this one will be a tight, attritional encounter.