 Five of the Oxford crew had previous Boat Race experience, including cox W. H. Porritt who was making his third appearance in the event.Cambridge's crew also included five individuals who had previously represented the university, including Humphrey Playford and P. H. G. H-S. Hartley who were rowing for the Light Blues for the third consecutive year.Two of the participants were silver medallists in the men's eight at the 1920 Summer Olympics