things are going along, with four days to go. This morning we did a piece, and I actually think we were close to sinking. We rowed well, but even with a set boat the waves steadily crashed over the gunnels. By the time we stopped, the water was up to the decks in my station, and above the decks in the 7 seat. It is a definite possibility that the boat-race will become a smash-fest. It is disheartening to think that after 6 months of perfecting the nuances of our strokes, the actual day might just be bashing up and down the slide in a contest to survive the rough water without sinking.
That said, the boat is going quite well, and spirits are high on the team. I think there is a collective realisation that Oxford need be an epic crew to beat us. I don't think they are, but we will see. Today Tom James, GB gold medallist in the 4-, said he thought we were better man for man, which is encouraging.
Other highlights of today; we had a dinner with Old Blues (alumni) and the press tonight. I definitely spilled a glass of wine onto Peter Drury, who is the chief commentator for the Boat Race. Well done Silas.
I'd have thought alcohol would be off your list of allowed things to consume this close to the Race ;)
ReplyDeleteBe prepared! (For weather, unexpected waves, etc. The pre-race visualization of a possible smashfest will be a bit gloomy, sure...)