Aberdeen universities to make waves at annual Boat Race

The race, hailed the north-east's answer to the prestigious Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, will take place on Saturday 21 March.

Crews from Aberdeen’s universities will battle it out on the 3.5km route along the River Dee, leaving from the Bridge of Dee and racing to the finish line at Aberdeen Boat House.

This year’s theme is Boars v Bulls reflecting the two universities’ mascots: Bobby the Boar (RGU) and Angus the Bull (Aberdeen). Both animals represent determination, power and strength – attributes needed to succeed on the water.

The toss for stations will take place at 12.50pm on the day, with the second crew and alumni races taking place at 1.35pm and 1.55pm respectively.

A Sports Presidents Race will take place at 2.40pm. Hannah Cowie, Vice President for Activities, and Fraser Bell, Chief Operating Officer, will be competing for the University of Aberdeen. Davidson Obi Onyeanuna, President (Sport and Physical Activity) and X will represent RGU.

The Aberdeen Boat Race will then commence at 3pm, with the presentation of trophies taking place at 3.30pm.

The University of Aberdeen crew emerged victorious at the 2025 race, giving them a 22-8 lead ahead of the 31st annual race next month.

This year, the cox for the University of Aberdeen will be Lara Tinneny, and Polly Payne will lead the Robert Gordon University crew.

Heather Monaghan, President of the Aberdeen University Boat Club and third year medical student, said: "The Aberdeen University Boat Club crew has been training intensely over the winter months and I'm ready to lead the team into an exhilarating 31st Aberdeen Boat Race. Trust that we will fight hard to extend our winning streak on the River Dee. Bring it on!"

Professor Peter Edwards, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, said: “There is always a fantastic sense of community spirit at the Aberdeen Boat Race and it’s wonderful to see the city come together to celebrate sporting excellence. Each year the Boat Race demonstrates the commitment and passion both crews have for their sport. They work hard throughout the year to deliver this exciting event and their determination and effort is clear to all who attend.

“Whether you’ve been showing your support at the Boat Race for 30 years or this is your first time, I'd encourage you to come along and cheer on your team next month.”

Ellis Flett, President of the RGU Boat Club, said: "I’m so excited to be leading the RGU crew into the 31st annual Boat Race.

"Our squad is training hard to make sure we can take back the title from the University of Aberdeen and I would urge as many people as possible to come down to the riverside and cheer us on. Let’s paint the town purple."

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of RGU, said: "The annual Aberdeen Boat Race is a fantastic occasion, and I wish all of those taking part the best of luck. For more than 30 years, this event has been a celebration of sport in the heart of the city.

"I would urge supporters of both crews to line the banks and bridges along the River Dee to encourage them as they aim for the finish line."

Main image: Robert Gordon University captain Ellis Flett and University of Aberdeen captain Heather Monaghan.  Credit: Scott Carr