Boat Race 2015: Oxford University Women's team rescued from the River Thames after sinking in choppy waters
The Boat Race for both men and women takes place on 11 April
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Oxford University Women's Boat Race team were rescued from the Thames by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) on Wednesday after being overcome by choppy waters.
Crew members from the Chiswick RNLI station came to the assistance of the Oxford crew and their cox, who were training for the Boat Race which - along with the men's race - takes place on Saturday, April 11.
After the rowers were returned safely to Putney, the sunken eight was recovered and returned to Oxford's base.
The RNLI revealed the conditions were caused by strong wind against the tide creating three successive waves that poured over the boat's riggers, "creating an influx of water that could not be managed by the craft's bilge pump".
In a statement RNLI helmsman Ian Owen said: "While we have rescued quite a number of rowers over the years, this is the first time I've been involved in helping such a prestigious team.
"The weather can be unpredictable on the Thames, and the Oxford University team dealt with the situation as safely and calmly as possible. We wish them all the best for their upcoming race."
Chiswick and Tower stations are the busiest in the country, and the RNLI has saved over 3,600 people since the service began in 2002.
The RNLI Alternative Boat Race fundraising event on April 10 takes place the day before the BNY Mellon Boat Race on the same famous stretch of river. For more information, please visit: RNLI.org/BoatRace
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments