In front of thousands of spectators lining the river Isis, Pembroke College Boat Club (PCBC) has achieved a historic milestone: the Women’s First Eight secured the Head of the River title at Oxford’s Summer Eights 2025, marking their first such victory since 2018 . This triumph follows their inaugural Torpids headship earlier this year, underscoring a season of exceptional performance for the crew and PCBC. 

The crew’s ascent was marked by decisive bumps against Christ Church and University College, culminating in a final-day victory over Wadham College, right in front of Pembroke and Wadham boathouses!

Key contributors to this success include coxswain Erin Kennedy OBE, a two-time Paralympic champion, and rower Annie Anezakis, President of the Oxford University Women’s Boat Club .

To relive this historic moment go here: https://youtu.be/rU-PRm9eKsg?feature=shared

If you want to pull along with them for the whole race, go here. https://youtu.be/6-Zq_47263o?feature=shared

Further details and reflections on the crew’s performance can be found on the Pembroke College website or @pcbcoxford on Instagram.