Metropolitan Regatta 2025 – Open Academic Eights Preview

Once again, the 2025 edition of the Metropolitan Regatta looks set to deliver on its promise as a key battleground in the pre-Henley Royal Regatta calendar. The event brings together a deep and competitive field of academic eights, featuring powerhouse programmes, rising contenders, and established university names, all vying for supremacy. With Oxford Brookes entering multiple stacked crews and recent medallists returning to defend or improve their positions, anticipation is high for what promises to be a fiercely contested event.

Perhaps the most eye-catching entry is Cambridge B’s post-Boat Race eight. Could they challenge Brookes’ depth, or will Durham’s recent form hold up against traditionally faster programmes? With just weeks remaining before Henley Royal Regatta, the Metropolitan Regatta serves as a critical litmus test for speed, depth, and intent.

Oxford Brookes C – The Old Hands

Oxford Brookes C is arguably the fastest crew in this category and would not look out of place in the championship field. With a dominant win in the intermediate eights at BUCS Regatta under their belts, expect a clean start, power through the middle, and composure under pressure. While exact lineups can shift within the Brookes system, this will be a seasoned crew full of aggressive racers with a well-drilled rhythm and Henley Royal Regatta experience. Expect relentless efficiency, high base speed, and ruthless consistency.

Oxford Brookes D – The Inherited Power

Hot on their heels will be Oxford Brookes D, who pushed their C counterparts all the way to the line at BUCS and look just as racy. Slightly less polished, perhaps, but full of raw firepower and competitive edge, this crew will be itching to close the gap and showcase the internal depth Brookes is famous for. Against almost any other opposition, this would likely be the fastest academic eight on the water.

Together, these two crews exemplify the sheer depth of the Brookes programme. Unless something goes seriously wrong, expect both to occupy the top steps of the podium once again. The only real question is: can anyone else get close?

Durham University BC (B) – The Rising Force

Durham B come into this weekend off the back of what some might call a surprise bronze medal at BUCS. They may now be riding a wave of quiet momentum. Often seen as a consistent second-tier threat, this crew has shown they can punch above their weight when it matters. Their last outing saw them outperform the likes of Edinburgh and Newcastle. They’ll be determined to prove that the result was no fluke.

While they may not boast the raw horsepower of Brookes, Durham is renowned for sharp technical execution and a tight internal squad culture. Their motivation will be sky-high. Expect a well-drilled crew, aggressive over the opening 1,000m, and hard to shake once in the mix. A podium repeat is well within reach, and if one of the Brookes boats falters, Durham could be first to pounce.

Cambridge University BC (B – M. Edge) – The X-Factor

Cambridge’s post-Boat Race lineups are always difficult to assess, but they usually mean business when they hit the water. This ‘B’ crew is stroked by Matthew Edge, a two-time Boat Race winner and proven race-day leader. Built from athletes across Cambridge’s clean sweep-winning squads, this eight can potentially upset the entire field.

While they did not race at BUCS, Cambridge will have their sights firmly set on a strong run at Henley Royal Regatta. With a blend of experience, raw speed, and Rob Baker’s exceptional coaching, this crew could be formidable. If they can translate their strong head-season form into 2,000m boat speed, Cambridge could challenge Brookes and disrupt the established order.

Teams to Watch Outside the Top Four

Newcastle University BC (C & D) – Newcastle continues to show impressive squad depth, with their ‘C’ and ‘D’ crews having an outside shot at reaching a top final. They’ll be eager to close the gap on local rivals Durham. Their physical style could pay dividends in a tight time trial format.

Imperial College BC (A) – While not at their peak this season, Imperial’s A crew remains capable of upsetting the order if they find form. A recent bronze at the Sveti Duje Regatta suggests they are regaining pace, and Peter Hardcastle’s crews are always dangerous when underestimated.

Queen’s University Belfast BC – The wildcard of the field. Queen’s has shown serious speed in sculling this season, but it remains to be seen how their top athletes will transition to the eight. If this is a fully loaded crew, they could pose a significant threat to the lower end of the top five.

University of Limerick & Dublin University (IRE) – Irish crews are always tricky to assess mid-season, but both arrive with strong domestic reputations. If the conditions suit them and they’ve prepared well, either could break into the mix and disrupt more established UK programmes.

Top Three Prediction – 2025 Metropolitan Regatta Academic Eights

1: Oxford Brookes University BC (C)
The reigning gold medallists and clear favourites. Brookes C brings exceptional depth, speed, and experience. Their recent commanding performances position them as the crew to beat.

2: Oxford Brookes University BC (D)
Brookes D’s silver-medal form and relentless competitiveness make them a strong challenger. Expect them to push their C boat all the way and likely secure a podium finish.

3: Cambridge University BC (B)
With the powerful stroke of Matthew Edge and a boat full of Boat Race winners, Cambridge is the wildcard. If they find their rhythm early, they could push for a top-three finish and shake up the order.