The University Boat Race of 1870.

Cromwell Argus, Volume I, Issue 33, 29 June 1870, Page 7

The University Boat Race of 1870.

Whether of not the race rowed on April 6 is destined to be the last of the rival Universities at Putney we cannot say, but so far as the adjuncts of delightful leather during the practice of a struggle expected to be of the closest kind, and of increased and heightened popularity, the contest is certainly one of the most noteworthy that has taken place from the inauguration of these meetings. The thousands of old and present University men, who during former years have accompanied the race in steamboats, were this year making 1 an endeavour to see something of the struggle from housetop and balcony. A far better view; of the race was obtainable than has been possible for many years. The surging fleet of steamers pressing behind the boats have cut off the view of the racing boats immediately after they have passed. This year everyone obtained, more or less, a fair glimpse of the struggle. Nearly every house had ono of the rival flags, and there was not an inhabitant or a visitor who did not exhibit a ribben or rosette in token of his sympathies. Of the hundreds of thousands of people assembled, the number without a distinguishing badge could have been counted by tens. Everyone had a strong interest on one side or the other, and it was remarkable that Light Blue had by far the larger proportion of wellwishers. The fact is creditable to the lovers of fair play and of the support of the weak against the strong, which forms so strong an ingredient in our national character. The friends and backers of Cambridge have for many years lost their money, and yet they are annually increasing. Cambridge, as the challengers, were the first to roar out to their place, and were greeted with tremendous cheers. Oxford were not long in following them, and after a splendid start, Cambridge drew ahead, and was a length ahead at the Crab Tree, the same at Hammersmith Bridge, and eventually won by a length and a-half. Time, 19 min. 30 sec.— European Mail