Oxford, who are attempting to prevent a record seven successive defeat, will enjoy a half pound per man advantage in the race, with an average weight of 14st 10lb compared to their rivals 14st 9 1/2lb.

Joshua West (left): How tall?

Whilst the Dark Blues have the weight advantage, Cambridge, however, have claimed the tallest crew record for the third successive year - with an average height of 6ft 6in.

Among their crew is American newcomer Josh West who towers above his team mates at a massive 6ft 9in - the tallest rower in race history.

Despite losing the battle for the scales Cambridge president and two times Boat Race winner Brad Crombie remained upbeat.

"The difference in weight is negligible and it shows how evenly matched the two crews are," he said.