Bowman Kip McDaniel called it ‘the toughest challenge I’ve ever had in my rowing career’ after his Cambridge crew’s narrow victory over Oxford in the 153rd Boat Race, sponsored by Xchanging, this afternoon (Saturday).

“That was a real tough one,” said the 26-year-old who has won World Championship medals with Canada. “They hung on and hung on. All credit to them. They gave us the toughest challenge I’ve ever had in my rowing career.”

McDaniel was also careful to praise the Cambridge cox, Rebecca Dowbiggin, a late call-up to the Blue Boat.

“Rebecca was magnificent,” said McDaniel. “She kept telling us to have faith in our training, and we did. She did a great job. It’s great credit to her.”