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Town Bumps isn't just a race; it's a Cambridge tradition dating back to 1868. Forget side-by-side racing—in the Bumps, we line up bow-to-stern and chase the boat in front. Our goal? Catch them, hit them (gently!), and take their place on the ladder.
Town Bumps isn't just a race; it's a Cambridge tradition dating back to 1868. Forget side-by-side racing—in the Bumps, we line up bow-to-stern and chase the boat in front. Our goal? Catch them, hit them (gently!), and take their place on the ladder.
Bumps 101: The Rules
Bumps 101: The Rules
The Line-up: Around 17 boats line up in a division, spaced exactly 1.5 boat-lengths apart.
The Start: The cox holds a chain attached to the bank. A series of cannons go off (4-minute, 1-minute, and the start). When the final cannon fires, you drop the chain and row like hell.
The "Bump": If your boat's bow ball touches the boat in front—or if their cox concedes by raising their hand—you’ve got a "bump"!
What Happens Next: Both boats immediately pull over to the bank to let the rest of the division pass. The next day, you swap starting positions.
"Blades" vs. "Spoons": * Blades (The Dream): Bump a boat every single day of the regatta, and your crew wins "Blades" (and the right to paint an oar with your names).
Spoons (The Nightmare): Get bumped every single day, and you walk away with the "Wooden Spoon."
Crew Logistics
Crew Logistics
(What to Expect)
The "Getting-On" Race: If we enter more crews than there are spaces in the lower divisions, some boats will have to qualify in a timed race a few days before Bumps starts.
Bank Parties: Every boat needs a "Bank Party"—crew members or supporters on bicycles who ride alongside the race, blowing whistles to tell the cox how close they are to the boat ahead (e.g., one whistle = one length, continuous whistles = overlap!).
The Beer Tent: The social heart of the week. Located at the Plough pub, it’s where all the clubs gather after the divisions finish to celebrate (or drown their sorrows).
How the PS Squad Fits In
How the PS Squad Fits In
(Inclusitivity)
"At Nines, we are proud of our depth. In 2025, the PS squad entered 6 boats across all divisions. We put out everything from highly competitive crews chasing blades, to completely recreational boats focused on surviving the week and enjoying the beer tent. Whatever your level, there is a seat for you."
Call to Action
Call to Action
(The Next Step)
Want to race? Keep your eyes on further details closer to bumps. We will put out availability spreadsheets to coordinate crew selections, coxes, and bank parties.
Want to help? If you aren't ready to row, we always need sub coxes, bank riders, and loud voices to cheer from the Meadow.
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