The BBC was delighted with provisional figures that suggest the first women’s boat race to be broadcast live on TV was watched by nearly five million people.
Saturday’s race, won by Oxford by 6 1/2 lengths from Cambridge, was watched by 4.8 million people, with 6.2 million tuning in to watch the men’s race, also won by Oxford by 6 1/2 lengths, an hour later.
“We’re really pleased with the figures for the boat races on a massive day of sport,” said Philip Bernie, the BBC’s head of TV Sport. “Over six million for the men’s race, just under five million for the women’s race, and an average audience of over four million watching throughout all point to sustained interest in the event; and in particular highlight the success of rowing both races on the Thames on the same day. We are very proud to have brought audiences this historic moment.”
The viewing figures were higher than in 2010 and 2012, although down on last year’s peak of 7.7m. However, these were provisional figures that may yet be revised upwards on Monday. The good weather and the Grand National, which was broadcast at a similar time, may have also affected the televised audience numbers.
Constantine Louloudis, the Oxford University rowing president, was relieved after winning a fourth successive boat race. “It’s such a relief. I had nightmares about winning three of the races and losing as president. It feels fantastic,” said Louloudis. “We had our best row. I’m having a day off and then going to GB trials next weekend, then I have my finals, then I will rejoin GB for Henley and Lucerne and the World Championships, then full time towards the Olympics.”
