Watch the Aussie who halted the race between Oxford and Cambridge Uni’s ..by swimming down the Thames.
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BBC iPlayer has secured the rights to its first ever sporting event – the famous Xchanging Boat Race, which took place during Easter break on the River Thames.
The race was the subject of much controversy when it was halted by the umpire due to an Australian anti elitist protestor Trenton Oldfield, who hails from Sydney’s North Shore, who swam across the Thames during the race – to the shock of participants and onlookers alike.
Oldfield was pulled from the water and charged with Public Order Act offences and is to appear in UK court on April 23.
iPlayer subscribers including can nowshare in the drama of the one of world’s oldest sporting rivalries, between the crews of Oxford and Cambridge Universities, from tomorrow Friday 13 April, BBC confirmed today.
First competed over 180 years ago, the event provides great drama, whether it be nail biting finishes or mid-race clashes; there is always an intensity and excitement quite unique to The Boat Race.
It’s always been our ambition to expand the selection of programme genres on the pilot of the Global BBC iPlayer, and I’m thrilled to confirm Sport as the latest one,” said Jana Bennett, President Global BBC iPlayer.
And it looks like the Beeb is planning to show more sporting exclusives:
“We’re keen to make Global iPlayer the home to some of the very best British sporting moments,” Bennett added.
The first race took place in 1829 in Henley on Thames following a challenge between old school friends, but since 1836, the contest has taken place in London. International distribution rights for The Xchanging Boat Race are held by BBC Worldwide.
