Oxford vs Cambridge: This Year’s Regatta is a Battle of Twins

In what can only be described as a unique turn of events, English twin sisters, Catherine and Gemma King, will compete against each other in the prestigious Boat Race this year. This renowned regatta, a long-standing tradition held on the Thames, is a competition between the university crews of Oxford and Cambridge. The Telegraph shares the intriguing tale of these two students, highlighting that despite being 24-year-old twins, they have always participated in the Boat Race, on behalf of Cambridge since 2018. However, this year brings a twist in the tale as they will be rowing in two different boats. This noteworthy change can be attributed to Catherine who has recently undertaken a doctorate at Oxford University.

Gemma, who is currently immersed in studying stem cell biology, expressed her feelings about the upcoming race, “We’re both extremely competitive and naturally, we aspire to win. However, it’s important to remember that the Boat Race transcends the simple notion of winning or losing,” she shared. “Regardless of the outcome, I’ll hold immense pride in representing Cambridge and equally proud of Catherine competing for Oxford. Of course, we would be overjoyed to win.”

Catherine, who is delving into the field of cardiovascular science, is eagerly awaiting the Boat Race. “This year has been particularly thrilling for me since I joined the Oxford team,” she expressed enthusiastically. “The Boat Race is an extraordinary experience and I am keenly anticipating what we can achieve on the day of the race”.

Despite the fierce rivalry between their respective universities, the sisters have clarified that it’s unlikely they’ll be competing directly against each other on March 30. Gemma will be participating on Cambridge’s first boat with Catherine on Oxford’s second boat. The reason being Catherine had to take a hiatus from training due to an injury.

Hailing from Bagshot, Surrey, the twins shared that their parents, Mike and Liz King, will be there in full support for both teams. They intend to show their unbiased support by wearing hats or shirts in the light blue of Cambridge or the dark blue of Oxford. Commenting on their parents’ unique way of supporting, Catherine shared, “They even humorously suggested wearing half-and-half hats, but I suspect it’s more than just a joke at this point. They are fully committed to supporting both of us and will be there to witness every race.”