From choir boy to beatboxing at the Sheldonian
Oriel’s rowing crews end Summer Eights week with the sound of success ringing in their ears
2 June 2023
Rowing accomplishments are familiar territory for Oriel, with a history of being Head of the River 35 times but that doesn’t make this year’s victories any less sweet for current students. The joyful atmosphere of celebration and success was palpable at the end of Summer Eights, as Oriel made their traditional victory parade through the sunny streets of Oxford from the river back to the college after their final wins at teatime on Saturday 27th May.
The Men’s First VIII fended off Christ Church and retained the Headship, a position they have held since 2019. The Women’s First VIII finished in the highest position Oriel women have ever been, up to fourth on the river from seventh. This leaves Oriel in a strong position to go for double headship next year.
Here’s a quick summary of the rest of the rowing results kindly provided by women’s Captain Amelia Monaghan:
M1 rowed over at Head of the River again, making this Oriel’s 35th Summer VIIIs Men’s Headship
W1 had an impressive week, bumping up three times to 4th on the river. This is the highest that Oriel women have ever been, and puts us in a very strong position for next year.
M2 bumped up once in Division 2, and are still by far the highest M2 on the river.
W2 also had a successful week, bumping up three times.
M3 and M4 had a mixed week rowing over, bumping and being bumped (even once by Oriel M5!), and enjoyed what was for many of them their first bumps campaign.
W3 were unfortunately bumped every day, earning them spoons, but were in good spirits all week nonetheless.
M5 contained a mixture of alumni, ex-M1 rowers, and other students, and narrowly missed out on blades when their division was klaxoned (racing was stopped) on the final day.
W4 was the first ever Oriel women’s beer boat, and rowed over every day.
Our congratulations to all Oriel’s crews on their achievements, and we wish them the best of luck for the next year Summer Eights!
Find out more details on the Summer Eights race here.