May Bumps

May Bumps. The May Bumps are an annual set of bumping races held on the River Cam in Cambridge, England. Organized by the Cambridge University Combined Boat Clubs, the event involves the college boat clubs of the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University. Taking place over four days in mid-June, the races are a central and historic part of Cambridge's collegiate sporting culture.

History

The origins of the event trace back to the early 19th century, with the first recorded races taking place in the 1820s. Initially, races were side-by-side contests, but the narrow, winding nature of the River Cam made this impractical, leading to the adoption of the bumping format. The event has been held almost annually since, with notable cancellations occurring during periods like the Second World War. Historically, the races were part of a wider Cambridge sporting calendar that included the Lent Bumps, with the May event traditionally marking the end of the academic year. The administration of the races has long been managed by the Cambridge University Combined Boat Clubs, which also oversees the Lent Bumps.

Format and rules

The competition is a bumping race, a format also used in the Lent Bumps and the Oxford Torpids and Summer Eights. Crews, typically eights or occasionally fours, line up along the river with a set distance, usually one and a half boat lengths, between each boat. The starting order is determined by the results of the previous year's races. The primary objective is to catch and physically touch, or "bump," the crew ahead before the crew behind makes contact. A successful bump requires both crews to concede immediately, with the bumping crew taking the position of the bumped crew for the following day's racing. The ultimate goal for a crew is to earn the title of "Head of the River" by finishing at the top of the division after four days.

The bumps process

Racing occurs over four consecutive afternoons, with multiple divisions for men and women running in sequence. Each division's race covers a defined course, roughly from Baits Bite Lock to First Post Corner, though the exact length can vary. A cannon signals the start, and crews pursue each other in a fast-paced, chaotic procession. A bump is signaled by the raising of hands or voices from the affected crews, and the result is confirmed by bank officials following in bicycles. The following day, the two crews that bumped swap places in the starting order. Crews that neither bump nor are bumped are said to have "rowed over." A crew that bumps every day achieves the prestigious "blades" and earns painted oars, while a crew bumped every day is "spooned."

Significance and traditions

The event is a major highlight of the Cambridge social and sporting calendar, drawing large crowds of spectators, alumni, and students to the riverbanks. It fosters intense inter-collegiate rivalry and camaraderie, with success bringing great prestige to the winning college. Traditional celebrations include the Bump Supper, a festive dinner held by colleges after the races conclude. The event is also closely linked to the Henley Royal Regatta, with many participants using the Bumps as preparation for the national competition. The atmosphere along the River Cam is often compared to that of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race.

Records and notable performances

The most successful club in the history of the men's divisions is Lady Margaret Boat Club of St John's College, which has held the Head of the River title numerous times. In the women's divisions, Jesus College Boat Club has a distinguished record. Notable individual performances include crews achieving "blades" from the lowest starting position, a feat known as a "super-over." The event has been a proving ground for many athletes who later competed at the World Rowing Championships or the Olympic Games, including notable British Olympians. The highest number of bumps achieved over the four-day period remains a coveted and fiercely contested record.

Category:Rowing competitions in England Category:Sport in Cambridge Category:University of Cambridge