Today, crews participating in the University Boat Race have been alerted to significant health risks due to potentially high levels of E.coli bacteria present in the River Thames. Reports indicate that nearly a third of E.coli samples collected by River Action UK from the river have shown water quality levels nearly three times below what are deemed acceptable.
As rain was forecast overnight, concerns have been raised that swollen sewage outflows could exacerbate the already precarious water conditions just as rowers and spectators descend upon this storied event. Amy Fairman, a spokeswoman for River Action, shared her concerns with the Mail On Sunday, stating that "with heavy rain forecast, there's a real risk the Thames will once again be flooded with sewage—just as rowers and spectators gather for one of the river's most iconic events," adding specific reference to an incident earlier in the week where a burst sewage pipe upstream was discharging raw sewage directly into the racecourse.
In light of these warnings, River Action has urged the winning crew to reconsider the traditional post-race celebration of throwing their cox into the water. The campaign group has called upon both Thames Water and regulatory bodies to take immediate action to enhance sewage treatment infrastructure. Fairman emphasised the stakes at hand, stating, "the health of our rivers, our communities, and the athletes on the water is on the line."
Concerns over the water quality have also been echoed by Giles Bristow, chief executive of Surfers Against Sewage, who remarked on how today's boat race underscores the ongoing sewage crisis. He forecast concerns for holidaymakers set to enjoy the Thames this Easter, warning of "polluted water that puts their health at risk," and declared a necessity for governmental reform of the water industry.
To address the health and safety of participants, race organisers have outlined a series of precautionary measures, confirming they have implemented guidance on covering open wounds, established regular handwashing protocols, set up a cleansing station at the finish area, and highlighted the risks associated with entering the water. This event marks the 170th men's race and the 79th women's race in the history of the boat race.
Further complicating the sporting event are issues of eligibility and controversy surrounding some competitors. In a recent development, Oxford University Boat Club lodged a complaint regarding three Cambridge rowers—Matthew Heywood, Molly Foxell, and Kate Crowley—claiming they were pursuing degrees that did not meet the qualifications for competition. The race's independent panel subsequently sided with Oxford, preventing the trio from participating.
In response to reports regarding discharge issues, a spokesperson for Thames Water stated that they have investigated the source of the sewer discharge near Ship Alley, confirming repairs have been made, along with re-lining surface water pipes to prevent further releases. They affirmed ongoing testing and a commitment to a significant £1.8 billion investment aimed at improving river health in London over the next five years.
As the event unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and health of all participants against a backdrop of ongoing environmental concerns, delivering a multifaceted narrative surrounding this prestigious tradition.
Source: Noah Wire Services