All members of both crews – 13 in total – attended, with people travelling from the USA, mainland Europe, and all parts of the UK (including Oxford) to be there.

The crews enjoyed a superb dinner in the McKenna Rooms on Friday night and very much appreciated the fine dining cuisine, being delighted to note how far the culinary standards at the House had progressed since the 1980s.

On Saturday morning, the crew took to the water in the Mike Rosewell, a boat which the 1984 and 1985 crews donated to the boat club in 2022 in memory of their much-loved coach who sadly passed away that year. They had a long paddle and although there was no competition (apart, unwittingly and briefly, from a veterans women’s crew), they were happy to be able to relive old memories of past glories along that stretch of water. Although the crew is only together once every five years, and many no longer row, the muscle memory and common technique learnt at Oxford 40 plus years ago (fast catch, relaxed recovery!) ensured a highly-enjoyable outing, especially for the cox, who did none of the work.

The crews would like to express their sincere thanks to everyone in the Development and Conference offices, Kitchen, Buttery and from the Boat Club who helped to make their reunion such a special occasion.

The two crews have celebrated their triumph on the river every five years and intend to continue doing so for as long as they are able to get up the stairs to the Hall and to get up the slide in the boat!

Dr Andrew Green (1983, History)