The 2005 Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race was won by the Oxford crew, which included Canadian Olympic silver medallist Barney Williams. This brings the tally of wins to 78 for Cambridge, 72 for Oxford. The Boat Race has been an annual event since 1856 (except in the war years).
"During the last two weeks I have come to realize that the Boat Race is truly a sporting spectacle. With more press attention than the Olympic rowing regatta and more spectators than the World Cup final, it is a very special stage to compete upon," said Williams, who grew up on Salt Spring Island, B.C.
"I was confident that we created a strategy over the last six months that had only one possible result: victory."
Oxford won by two boat lengths in 16 minutes 42 seconds, the third fastest time ever. The Boat Race distance is four miles 374 yards.
The last Canadian to win as part of Oxford was Scott Frandsen in 2003. Canadian Wayne Pommen led Cambridge to victory last year.
Williams, 28, rowing in number two seat today, was part of the men's four crew than missed out on Olympic gold by .08 of a second. The British crew was first, but the Canadians gained much respect for their tight race and sportsmanship. The Canadian mens four is up for a Canadian Sport Award, an event in Toronto on March 29 that Williams and crewmate Jake Wetzel will attend.
In order to row for Canada this summer, Williams will return for National Team trials in June in Victoria, B.C.