The Boat Race is a race between the rowers of Oxford University and Cambridge University along a particular stretch of the River Thames in England which takes place at the beginning of Spring, except in one year when there were two races. Only in one year was there a draw. According to tradition, the loser has to invite the winner for a new race.
"I can't see who's in the lead but it's either Oxford or Cambridge." -John Snagge.
Because of this event, boat race has become rhyming slang for face. There are a number of boat races around the world, some of which take place in dry rivers.
