Worcester College Boat Club has a long and proud history in Oxford’s prestigious bumps racing. As one of the first five colleges to participate, Worcester first competed in 1825, during the inaugural race held under the current rules. Crews started in order above Iffley Lock, aiming to bump ahead of other boats over successive days. During that year’s three-day event, Worcester bumped Exeter on the second day, but Exeter took revenge on the third, leaving Worcester in third place overall.

Since then, Worcester Men’s 1st VIII has fluctuated between Divisions 1 and 2 in Summer VIIIs, with their highest finishes being second place in both 1834 and 1848. Numerous third-place finishes have followed in more recent years. In Torpids (the bumps races held during Hilary term), the Men’s 1st VIII has achieved notable success, winning Headship (first place on the river) three times: in 1838, 1922, and 1930.

The Women’s side of the club has a shorter but impressive history, having first competed in Summer VIIIs and Torpids in 1980. Despite their more recent entry, the women’s crews have achieved strong results, with their highest finishes being 7th in Summer VIIIs and 6th in Torpids.

For more information on Worcester historic bump charts and crew statistics click here.