Oxford Coach Decries Thames Pollution Ahead Of Boat Race

Members of the Oxford University rowing team throw their cox Nicholas Brodie, centre, into the river after beating Cambridge University, at the 154th annual Boat Race on the River Thames, Londo

LONDON (AP) — The coach of Oxford’s crew participating in the Boat Race has criticized the pollution in London’s River Thames, labeling it a “national disgrace.” The company responsible for the river's upkeep is facing financial difficulties, prompting calls for it to be taken back into state hands.

Recent testing by a campaign group revealed high levels of E.coli along a section of the Thames in southwest London, where the historic race is scheduled to take place on Saturday. Crew members have been cautioned about the health risks of entering the water and advised to use a “cleansing station” at the finish area. The pollution has even raised concerns about the traditional post-race practice of throwing the winning cox into the water.