There are few rivalries in English sports that are as fiercely contested as the rowing regatta between the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Since 1829, these prestigious universities have been battling it out on the Thames in this special competition, now including women for a hundred years.
In honor of this milestone for women’s racing, German sisters Lilli and Mia Freischem will compete against each other in the so-called Boat Race, adding a family duel to the mix. When you’ve known your opponent for a lifetime, share the same sport, and train for a common goal, a legendary race becomes a unique event where you can both win and lose.
Lilli Freischem, a 26-year-old physics doctoral student, has been rowing for Oxford since 2023. In 2025, she moved from the reserve boat to the main field but faced defeat against Cambridge’s competition from the North. Cambridge has had the upper hand since the first women’s race in 1927 with a 49:30 record.
Mia Freischem, making her debut for Cambridge on Saturday (start at 3:21 pm CEST) in the first team, aims to further extend her university’s lead. The medical student not only followed in the footsteps of her two-year-older sister when choosing the sport but also turned the limited sports options during the pandemic, like rowing, into an opportunity.
The sisters’ combination of technical finesse and explosiveness would be a remarkable boost if they were in the same boat. The rivalry between the universities motivates the sisters to achieve their best, training separately but supporting each other regularly and seeing themselves more as inspiration than competition.
The participation in the Boat Race entails many challenges and sacrifices for the Freischem sisters, balancing academic demands with elite sports requirements. The compatibility of sport and studies is demanding but works well due to the universities’ strong connection with clubs.
In Germany, the sisters hope for a similar setup where the top athletes can study alongside their sport, as seen in the UK. They have no regrets about pursuing both academic and athletic careers, as it has made them more resilient to stress and pressure. One thing is certain: the name Freischem will be among the winners of this prestigious race.
