Tuesday, June 2, 2009

"The Bumps" on the Thames

"The Bumps" Race is an annual competition both for Cambridge and Oxford intramurals. We set out on a rainy day to see one of the first days. The Thames River flows right through Oxford and not too far from where we live. The main objective of the race is to "bump" the boat in front of you before the boat behind bumps you! Each college has a boat, with eight rowers plus a cox (who both steers and calls out direction for the backward facing rowers). They line up in single file in the narrow river with one and a half boat length between them. A cannon signals the start and off they go!
A bit windy, too! Yes, both of their umbrellas were blown inside out!
View from the bridge. Boat practicing and rowing to its starting position.
We brought out the camera when the rain subsided. I was lucky to grab Sophie's rain hat to borrow!

In the background is St. Hilda's men's team. Nice headgear, Hildabeasts!
And nice smiles, kids!

Walking alongside the Thames. Right before Lucy fell face down on the muddy path!

Lining up. Women's teams.

Learn more about Oxford rowing and the Bumps race here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumps_race

2 comments:

Kelly said...

I hope you appreciate the rich experience you guys are having over there! Wish I could come along in your pocket on one of these outings Natalie!

Also I was just thinking as I saw your cute pink hat that you have the cutest hat collection. First your grey one from the cheese rolling day and now this? Then I read that it was Sophie's. You look nice in hats! You should wear them more often I guess.

Natalie Daines said...

Kelly, you're very kind!
In all honesty, the hats serve a purpose. It's been quite a while since I've had a quality hair cut/color, anything! Plus, a little humidity together with a little natural curl = a perfect storm, UNDER my hat! I love my hats for those reasons! Haha.