Jesus student selected for 2021 Boat Race

Congratulations to postgraduate student Sebastian Benzecry (2020), who has been selected to be part of the University of Cambridge men’s crew at the 2021 Gemini Boat Race.

Sebastian is studying for a Master's in Film and Screen Studies. He will go into the Race on Sunday 4 April hoping to retain the title and bring the Light Blue's wins up to 85. Cambridge currently leads Oxford by four victories, 84-80.

Sebastian said: “It's certainly been a season of obstacles and uncertainty, which has had a pretty massive impact on our training. The lockdowns forced us to train at home, which definitely posed significant challenges. Thankfully, I've been living with 5 other guys on the team, so we could really hold ourselves accountable and get the best out of each other. As a team, though, we worked really hard to connect with each other even while training apart, making sure we always had the end goal at the forefront of our minds - winning the Boat Race.”

I think it's been an incredibly motivated season in spite of the COVID challenges. We've really taken the various restrictions in our stride, and have valued any and all time we've had out on the water while using the lockdown training to build massive base fitness. I think that's really allowed the Blue Boat to come together quickly, and our coach, Rob Baker, has been incredible in bringing the unit together in such a short space of time. We're very excited to race and to show how well we've handled this uniquely difficult year as a whole squad.” 

To ensure that the 2021 Boat Race is as safe as possible for crews and spectators, it will be taking place as a closed event on the River Great Ouse in Ely. Organisers have encouraged Boat Race fans to “to get involved at home, enjoying the event on the BBC and respecting any restrictions that may be in place at the time.” The Boat Race will be broadcast on the BBC from 3.00-5.30pm on Sunday 4 April 2021.

We wish Sebastian and his crewmates every success, and will be cheering along for all four Cambridge crews on the day. Find out more about the 2021 Boat Race on the official website.