Tom Mackintosh and William O’Connell, two current Oxford Saïd MBA students, will be rowing for Oxford in this Sunday’s 195th varsity Boat Race against light blue rivals Cambridge.
Olympic gold medallist Tom, who rowed in two successive Games for New Zealand, has thrown himself into life at Oxford and to his role as this year’s President of the Oxford University men’s boat club. When asked who was going to win this year, as the president of the club, Tom was statesmanlike. But he enthused about the traditions, history and opportunities of Oxford and the amazing diversity and experience of being an MBA student at Oxford Saïd.
Both Tom and his Oxford boat Australian teammate William, both of whom are students at Oriel College, took a short break from practice and said how much they are enjoying being part of the historic event. Tom said it has been great to be part of the ‘the long period of tradition that encapsulates the Boat Race’. He added: ‘There is so much history and culture. It’s something you don’t quite realise until you come here. That’s been the main learning curve.’
William explained: ‘It’s an unbelievable feeling having come all the way from Australia to study at Oxford and compete in the Boat Race. The race itself is one of the true spectacles in the rowing world, and something I’ve dreamt about as a kid. So, it’s great to be part of that history…and hopefully, we can do a really good job.’
