Where are all the timing points?
Times are taken at fixed points along the course. The first is at The Mile Post. This is one mile from the start and is marked by a plinth on the tow path on the Surrey side. The plinth displays a carving of Steve Fairbairn who won twice for Cambridge in 1886 & 1887. He also founded the Head of the River Race and was responsible for a revolution in rowing style in the early 20th century. Hammersmith Bridge is the second timing point about midway along the course. Designed by famous Victorian sewer engineer Joseph Bazalgette and built on the pier foundations for the 1827 bridge it was opened in 1887. A replacement for the original bridge was needed after alarmed owners witnessed over 11,000 spectators clamber all over the structure during the 1870 race. Traditionally coxes aim for the second lampost from the left which marks the deepest part of the river and therefore the fastest line. While there are no steps to see at Chiswick Steps, this is the third timing point. Just beyond Chiswic
