CUBC Names New Men’s Eight in Honour of the victorious 1986 Blue Boat

Cambridge University Boat Club proudly marked a special moment on the Tideway this Friday with the naming of its newest Men’s Eight, honouring the legendary 1986 ‘Hell Boat’ on the 40th anniversary of their famous victory.

The ceremony took place on Putney Embankment, directly outside Thames Rowing Club, as the current crew completed final preparations for the 2026 Boat Race. The Club was delighted to welcome back all nine members of the 1986 crew for the occasion.

Club Chairman and 1986 five‑man Stephen Peel, together with Chief Men’s Coach Rob Baker, addressed a large gathering of alumni, friends and supporters. John Pritchard, who stroked the 1986 boat, did the honours in christening the new shell.

After the ceremony, the 1986 crew met their 2026 counterparts and shared their good wishes ahead of Saturday’s races. A particularly special moment came when 2026 cox Sammy Houdaigui met 1986 cox Carole Burton, and discovered he is the first Men’s Blue Boat cox from Fitzwilliam College since Carole herself.

CUBC extends its sincere thanks to all members of the 1986 crew for their generosity in supporting the purchase of the new shell and for travelling to the Tideway to witness its unveiling.