Leicester prepares for Boat Race showdown

While the rest of Leicester celebrates St Georges Day, the damsels from De Montfort and Leicester Universities won’t be waiting for St George to rescue them – they’ll be sorting out the dragon themselves!

After close finishes at the recent Varsity races, both De Montfort and Leicester University crews are determined to win at the fourth annual Boat Race at Leicester Regatta on Sunday.

Competition between the university clubs is always hot, and the two crews of mixed eights will be taking to the water with steely determination to be first over the finishing line. With BUCS Regatta only a week away, this is going to be a testing race before competing with other University crews from all over the country.

“We have trained for this for weeks.” said Kathryn Hanna, President of Leicester University Boat Club as she prepared her crew for their final training session. “We have no intention of letting De Montfort get past us. Our crew seriously wants to win.”

Russell Theobald, President of the De Montfort Rowing Club, is keeping a close eye on his crew to make sure there’s no slacking before the race. “Our rowers have to be committed and work hard to be included in our competing crew. We are determined to win.”

The scene is set. 12 noon, Sunday 27 April. The course is 700 meters dead straight on the Grand Union Canal, Leicester City Centre. The coxes will be on fire, the blades will sizzle as they cut into the water. Can De Montfort even up the score or will Leicester increase their lead?

“This promises to be a fine race” said Rob Fox, Captain of Leicester Rowing Club. “I’ve seen both crews, and wouldn’t like to say what the outcome will be. But I do know the spectators on the tow path will be as competitive as the crews in their support!”

The Regatta is held on the Mile Straight, Leicester City Centre, from 9am to 5pm on Sunday 27th April 2014. Spectators are welcome along the tow path, and there is free entry. Refreshments are available from the Clubhouse. Leicester City Football Club have kindly arranged free parking in Car Park C, entrance opposite the Stadium. The University Boat Race will be held at 12 noon, followed by a medal ceremony.

Find out more about the 2014 Leicester Regatta at www.leicester-rowing.co.uk.