 As a result of unfavourable tides, the race was scheduled to be held on the Wednesday of Holy Week which, according to Drinkwater, "caused considerable controversy".The Oxford crew weighed an average of 12 st 8.875 lb (80.0 kg), per rower more than their opponents.Cambridge's boat contained three rowers with Boat Race experience, including R. W. M. Arbuthnot, J.