After breezing through to collected victory over Hughes Hall M2 in the first round (over three lengths ahead, no pressure calls required), M2 capped this with a quick turn-around and another confident win against Emma M2 (who will have a tough job catching Christ’s immediately behind in the Bumps start-order next week). A slightly closer race, Christ’s nonetheless got a better start and steadily consolidated this lead to outclass them by several lengths. In the semi-final M2 faced some much tougher competition against Pembroke M2; a formidable opponent made up mostly of more experienced seniors, who have emerged as the fastest M2 in every race so far this term, beating Christ’s by about 25 seconds in both the City Head to Head and Newnham Short-Course. Yet Pembroke’s cocky self-assurance at the start-line (combined with the prejudiced support of all their marshals!) proved misplaced. Despite a near nervy crab just after the start when M2 wound up to rate, Christ’s settled into their rhythm and gradually pulled away from the favourites, responding well to rate calls and pushing clear as Pembroke tried to claw back to the lead in vain. The division final saw Christ’s up against an accomplished First and Thirds M2, whose greater experience showed with a faster start and impressive composure throughout the course. Christ’s put up a valiant fight, keeping continuously level and never letting Trinity consolidate their initial slight lead. Unfortunately, FaT matched every push M2 made with their own burst, and although their lead had been narrowed to as little as a canvas, they crossed the line marginally ahead. Nevertheless, a heartening performance which firmly establishes Christ’s reputation as one of the fastest second boats on the river this term. All the more impressive given that six of the crew are freshers new to rowing with the club! Bring on Bumps!