The University of Sydney secured a double victory at the 2026 Australian Boat Race, with its women’s and men’s eight overcoming Melbourne in two closely contested races on the Lane Cover River on Saturday 25 October.
Racing on a new 3,500-metre course from Greenwich Wharf to Figtree Bridge, Sydney retained both university titles, adding another successful chapter to a rowing contest whose origins stretch back to 1860. The event’s return to Sydney brought the competition onto similar training waters for Sydney University Boat Club, with both crews delivering when it mattered.
The women’s eight raced from Lane Cove, (also known as the Northern Station), with Melbourne taking the Hunters Hill station (South Station). Sydney emerged victorious from a close contest to retain the Bella Guerin Trophy and draw level with Melbourne on eight wins apiece in the modern Australian Boat Race series.
That result gave Sydney the opportunity to complete the university double in the men’s race. With the stations reversed, Sydney from the Southern side and Melbourne from the North. Another competitive encounter followed, with Sydney prevailing to secure its 14th men’s title overall and the 11th consecutive victory dating back to 2014.
Together, the results continued Sydney’s sustained success in the event. While the men extended their winning run, the women’s victory brought the historical standings levels, giving particular significance to the retention of both trophies on home waters.
Earlier in the day, the college races shared the honours between Sydney and Melbourne. Trinity College Melbourne defeated St Andrews College in the women’s event, while St John’s College secured victory over Trinity in the men’s race. Both contests were held over a shorter 2,700-metre course finishing at Figtree Bridge.
For Sydney University Boat Club, the university double was the central achievement of the day against competitive Melbourne crews, Sydney’s women’s and men each secured the result needed to keep both Australian Boat Race trophies at the University.
