Statement on the eligibility of PGCE students for The Boat Race 2025
Cambridge University Boat Club is deeply disappointed by the news that our PGCE students have been classified as ineligible to race in The Boat Race. There is no question academically about the standing of the PGCE course, which is highly valued and operates at a postgraduate level. This decision comes despite the University’s advice on the PGCE’s standing and despite the precedent set by PGCE students from both Oxford and Cambridge being allowed to race in preceding years.
Following The Boat Race this year, it is in everyone’s interest for the two Clubs to sit down and agree the eligibility criteria for future races.
We would also like to clarify that the Joint Agreement only pertains to whom can race in The Boat Races, so all affected students are still eligible to row in other events this year. The Club is supporting affected athletes through this difficult time and is considering ways to honour their achievements.
We stand firm in our commitment to all Club members who studied for the PGCE and we would like to reassure our alumni that their race results and resulting ‘Blue’ still stands. We thank all previous PGCE students for managing to balance significant academic commitments alongside the rigorous training needed to compete in The Boat Race.
Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY
Cambridge University Boat Club Chair
Contact: admin@cubc.org.uk