Sydney University welcomed its longest rival, Melbourne University, on the iconic Sydney Harbour for the Australian Boat Race (ABR), an event steeped in tradition since 1860. This year’s race brought a substantial atmosphere and unmissable action as Australia’s two oldest universities went head to head.
Sydney University’s women’s team put on a remarkable show, securing their sixth consecutive ABR victory and closing Melbourne’s overall lead to just two wins. The race closely poised, but the Sydney Crew pulled ahead halfway through, holding their lead to the finish line.
Speaking after the race, Sydney University captain Emily Sheppard reflected: “It’s always fun racing out on the harbour. It was pretty chaotic with ferry wash and from the maritime as well. It’s so different from racing on the harbour to what it is down on the Yarra River”.
The men’s race proved equally intense. Melbourne’s coin toss win on Friday allowed them to select their preferred line, giving a slight edge within the initial moments. But Sydney’s crew navigated the Harbour’s challenging conditions skillfully, pulling away in the middle of the race to help claim their ninth consecutive victory.
Sydney University captain Jackson Kench spoke proudly after the win, saying, “It’s always good to get out on Sydney Harbour, and alternating between Melbourne and Sydney, Sydney also getting the home advantage that we love”. Kench added, “A few boys have participated in the Australian Boat Race several times. It’s always good for a New South Welshman to beat the Victorians. The conditions are always challenging, but with a big boat like this, it is still a great place to row, especially given the excellent turnout of the crowd”.
Earlier in the day, the college races added extra excitement to the event. Ormond College from Melbourne University maintained their dominance in the women’s race, winning their seventh straight title against St Pauls. Trinity College from Melbourne won over St Pauls in the men’s College race, capitalising on favourable waters.
The 2024 Australian Boat Race celebrated the competitive spirit and sportsmanship that define the iconic rivalry. With sights now set on next year’s race back on the Yarra River, both Sydney and Melbourne will look to continue their long-standing traditions and be their best in 2025.
