Oxford oarsman Andrew Wright is under no illusions about the challenge he faces in the 153rd Boat Race, which is sponsored by Xchanging.

The Canadian-born oarsman rowed over the gruelling four and a quarter mile course in the losing Isis crew in last year’s Reserve Race.

He’s back this year in the Dark Blue Boat – and knows he will have to put himself through the pain barrier.

“It’s not just a case of putting in a good performance you have to put in your best. It’s going to hurt,” he said.

“You’re not satisfied until you cross the line first. If you have to put yourself in hospital after the last stroke, that’s what you have to do.

“You have to put everything on the end of the oar,” he added. “You’re pushing until the other guy breaks.

“If it’s neck and neck at the end, it’s great for everybody except the 18 guys in the boats. Ideally you want to be pulling away at Fulham Bend.”

Wright is prepared for the race by breaking the course down into bite size chunks in his mind and is looking forward to the challenge of the 153rd Boat Race.

“I’m really excited. It’s one of those things you really have to prepare for mentally.”