Since moving to Cambridge I’ve found walking along the river can provide a varied sightseeing experience. It’s not just swans and weeping willows; I’ve come across a naked cyclist, a man with a foam axe chasing another man with pretend blood running down his face, people dressed as rabbits and instances of competitive mud wrestling.
On Sunday there were smurfs, Vikings and people in pink wigs, rowing down the river. On investigation, I have discovered that this was evidence of the Emma Sprints: an event organised by Emmanuel College Boat Club, intended as an introduction to racing. Instructions on the Boat Club’s website say costumes are expected, and bribes are encouraged.
Clare Chase 