News

Rowing clash will put family ties to the test

(13 May 2003)

Cousins Ollie Hunter-Smart and Paddy Thomas have always been very close, but their bond is set to come under pressure this weekend in the Northumbrian Water University Boat Race - because Ollie will be rowing for Newcastle University's Freshers' VIII, while Patrick rows for Durham's Men's first VIII.

The cousins' rivalry has been put to the test once already: Ollie and Paddy went head-to-head during the ergo - rowing machine - relay at the Boat Race challenge two weeks ago. On that occasion Ollie came out on top, so Paddy will have a score to settle when they take to the water on Sunday.

Although they won't be rowing against each other in the same race, both cousins are determined to help their separate universities to victory.

'When I heard Ollie was going to Newcastle University I told him that he should try and get involved in the boat club as I was having a great time rowing at Durham,' said Paddy, 'I am now a little worried about how good he has become - he's nearly as good as me!'

The Boat Race is also set to pose a problem for their family, who will be supporting them on the day. 'They'll be firmly behind Newcastle for the Freshers' VIII race', says Ollie, 'but then they'll be cheering on Durham's Men's VIII to support Paddy'.

• When reproducing material in connection with this press release, please refer to the 'Northumbrian Water University Boat Race'.
• The Northumbrian Water University Boat Race takes place on Sunday 18 May. Land- and river-based entertainment, featuring jet ski displays, dragon boat racing and a sailpast and pageant by the North East Boating Federation, musicians and street performers, gets underway at 3.00 pm, with the first of the races at 5.00 pm. The presentations to the winning crews will take place in Baltic Square at 6.15 pm.