If you love the intoxicating vibes spilling out at the scene of the world famous Oxford and Cambridge boat race, then this poem is for you.This charming piece will feature in the forthcoming poetry ensemble by Anita Williams entitled “The very Great Britain in Poetry”   ( Keep checking the web site for details of book release). We didn’t want you to have to wait to see all of the poems, so we do hope that this one entices you to want more. Please enjoy this sneak preview poem with our compliments:-

Cox and Rowers

 An annual spectacle of tradition and pace

Honed athletes in tune with rich poise and grace.

After Goldie v Isis, the main event’s on

Oxford and Cambridge: colours they don.

The mother of all boat races, heritage rich

Get there early for front line, and line up your pitch.

Since 1829 when this fine race panned out

A gold sovereign is tossed for commencement and clout.

Which side of the river for teams in the zone?

This coin’s filled with passion, each mind on its own.

Secure in the moment, a blood rush which smarts

They’re off with precision; each coxswain imparts.

Suppressing the nerves, they position their eights

And vy for best water, whilst crowd’s breath abates.

Instructions, fine tuning, keeping in time

Muscles holding the line, pure poetry in rhyme.

On Putney embankment strong words are the cry

From spectators on towpath as boats pass them by.

Then drama ensues with the umpires launch

“Watch out for the waves now…they’ll cover your haunch!”

On north bank the winning cox dunking takes place

Respectful, the smile firmly stays on his face.

Resplendent, the glory of taking the cup

Another race over…we’ve champagne to sup.