Spanning from Tuesday to Sunday, head-to-head racing between some of the world’s best crews takes place along this stretch of the River Thames. A personal highlight is always the sea of bright and colourful (and, in some cases, rather well-loved) rowing blazers lining the banks and filling the grandstands – truly a summertime spectacle. Attending on Saturday 4 July, I was delighted to spot many cream blazers with navy piping and embroidery of a red cardinal’s hat: proud markings of Christ Church Boat Club. Whilst sporting my own blazer, I had the pleasure of being approached by various rowers and friends of the House from across the years and hearing their fond memories of Christ Church.

The Development Office gave us further opportunity to connect with their annual Pimm’s Party, hosted by Phillipa Roberts and Professor Roger Davies. This was a delightful opportunity to catch-up with Boat Club alumni, reminiscing on training, competing, and memories of time spent on committee, and to wish ‘good luck’ to our graduating students as they move on to new endeavours. We also heard the inspiration felt by current rowers at the House having watched the racing from inside the Steward’s Enclosure, grateful for the badges donated by alumni. Indeed, this motivation and spirit bodes well for the new rowing season in Michaelmas – watch this space!

Holly Haines (2019, Experimental Psychology)