Leicester vs De Montfort boat race scheduled for 22 April

If you thought all sporting rivalry between the University of Leicester and our neighbours at De Montfort University was over for this year, think again. We still have the Boat Race, which will take place on Sunday 22 April 2012.

Rather than four miles of winding Thames, the Leicester Boat Race is a 700-yard sprint on a straight section of the River Soar, starting by Newarke Bridge, next to DMU, and finishing up near the King Power Stadium. It forms the centre piece of the day-long Leicester Rowing Club Regatta when adult and junior rowers compete in a wide range of disciplines.

For the university race, each university rowing club selects four men and four women for their team, plus a cox. The race starts at 12.30pm and the winners will be presented with a trophy by Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby. Hopefully there won’t be any protestors in the water.

Spectators are welcome and are expected to line the tow-path. Refreshments will be available all day in the Leicester Rowing Club clubhouse and parking is available in Car Park C of the King Power Stadium.

We won the inaugural Boat Race last year, which means that DMU will be out for revenge...