University Boat Race Stones, Historical rowing marker stones along River Thames, London, England
The University Boat Race Stones are two granite blocks positioned along the southern banks of the Thames that mark the precise start and finish lines for competitive rowing events. One sits near Putney Bridge while the other stands at Mortlake, establishing the exact route that rowers have followed for generations.
These stones were first established in 1829 to mark the boundaries of the University Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge. Since then they have served as fixed reference points for one of Britain's oldest and most famous sporting competitions.
The annual University Boat Race course, spanning 6,779 meters from Putney to Mortlake, remains defined by these enduring stone markers.
Both stones can be easily spotted from the Thames embankment promenade, particularly during a walk along the riverbanks between the two bridges. Early in the day is best for visiting and observing them in a quieter setting before river traffic becomes heavy.
A pyramid-topped post painted in Oxford and Cambridge blue colors stands opposite the finish stone and provides a visual marker that reinforces the race boundary. This colorful reference point helps both spectators and rowers clearly identify the exact finishing line of the competition.
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