The University of Aberdeen has triumphed in the Aberdeen Standard Investments Boat Race, which took place on Saturday (March 14) on Aberdeen's River Dee.
The mixed crew of eight sped across the finish line in an impressive eight minutes and 3.0 seconds, beating their historic rivals Robert Gordon University (RGU) by a length to lift the silverware at the landmark 25th outing of the event. RGU completed the 3.5km course in a time of eight minutes and 6.0 seconds.
Katie Sugden (20), president of Aberdeen University Boat Club, said: “The result today was absolutely incredible – I’m thrilled that we retained the title in such an important year for the boat race. The crew has been training so hard for the last few months, and Robert Gordon University had a strong crew, so it was a well-deserved victory and I’m really proud of everything they’ve achieved.
“I’d like to thank Aberdeen Standard Investments and everyone who made the race possible. It’s always incredible to see so many people out celebrating rowing in Aberdeen, and the cheers of the crowd along the course made for a really exciting atmosphere.”
Lizzie Buchan (20), president of Robert Gordon University Boat Club, adds, “Congratulations to the crew from the University of Aberdeen – they put on an impressive performance. It’s always disappointing not to win, but I’m proud of the way the crew rowed today – although we didn’t cross the finish line first, we put up a really good fight.
“It’s been a real honour to be a part of the 25th boat race, and I’d like to thank Aberdeen Standard Investments and the whole organising team for pulling together another fantastic event. Although it wasn’t to be in 2020, I’m confident we’ll come back next year stronger than ever.”
Earlier in the day, the alumni boat race was won by Robert Gordon University by a canvas in a time of eight minutes and 42.8 seconds. The universities’ second crew race was also won by Robert Gordon University by one foot in two minutes and 23.9 seconds. And the BBC triumphed against Northsound in the pairs media challenge over a short course, easily winning in one minute and 8.4 seconds.
Jill Maxwell, Head of Brand Activation at Aberdeen Standard Investments, commented: “Congratulations to the University of Aberdeen on a well-earned win today. Every year the boat race promises an exciting, close-fought battle on the water – and this year was certainly no disappointment. Both crews performed exceptionally well under stressful conditions and were a credit to their universities. I’m sure being part of the 25th event will be a memory the rowers on both sides will cherish for years to come.”
Follow the Aberdeen Boat Race on Twitter @2020boatrace, Instagram @abdnboatrace and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/abdnboatrace