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In a shocking turn of events, Oxford rower Leonard Jenkins has spoken out about the challenges his team faced due to contaminated water in the lead-up to the Boat Race against Cambridge on the River Thames.

Despite being the favorites, Oxford suffered a crushing defeat to Cambridge, with Jenkins revealing that he and some of his teammates fell ill on the morning of the race. The cause? Too much E coli bacteria in the water.

The River Action campaign group conducted tests around Hammersmith Bridge and found high levels of E coli, well above the acceptable standards set by the Environment Agency. This led to safety concerns and a decision to forgo the traditional post-race celebration of jumping into the river.

Jenkins expressed his disappointment with the outcome of the race but commended his team for their efforts. He acknowledged Cambridge’s performance and the impact of the illness on his team’s performance.

The rower’s honesty about his struggles with illness and the challenging conditions highlights the importance of water quality in sports events. Despite the setbacks, Jenkins remained determined to give his team a fighting chance, even if it meant pushing through his own discomfort.

As the rowing community reflects on this unexpected turn of events, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the resilience of athletes in the face of adversity. Oxford may have lost the race, but Jenkins’ courage and determination in the face of adversity are a testament to the spirit of competition.