Forget the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race: this caprine alternative is a charming east London tradition.
Taking place at Spitalfields City Farm just off east London’s Brick Lane on Sunday, March 29th, the Oxford Vs Cambridge Goat Race is a gentle sporting contest that’s hard to bleat.
While strapping poshos push themselves to the limits as they row the Thames in west London, animal-lovers will be reassured to know this race is rather more relaxing: essentially a nonchalant trot in pursuit of a bucket of delicious slops. Even the crowd keep things to a hush so as not to befuddle the wee beasties.
Naturally, there’ll be plenty of other festivities around the race proper – billed as a “goat-related nonsense mini-festival” – with beer, Goat-e-oke, vegetable trophy-making, and a Goatry Slam just some of the activities on offer.
Mercifully, tickets to this gladiatorial sporting contest are still on sale, and you can find them here – including the VIP Goat Encounter ticket which I highly recommend. Rest safe in the knowledge that all the money raised goes towards supporting the local work of the farm. Doors open at midday; the race is likely to be around 4:30pm – so if you’re still planning on watching it, we’d recommend you’re in place, bedecked in your team’s colours, and ready to chant by 4…
Visit their website for more information, or see more places to see cute animals in London.
Feature Image: Ben Mason