March 12, 1829 was the day the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race first came into being with a simple challenge between school friends – one at Oxford and one at Cambridge. The actual first race took place in June and was won by Oxford.

In 1839 the now annual event relocated to London, with the race taking place between Westminster and Putney. However, crowd congestion soon necessitated another move and, in 1845, the race was held for the first time on the current course between Putney and Mortlake.

Although both teams have had long winning runs, overall the honours are slightly in favour of Cambridge, with 78 wins to Oxford’s 73.

This week’s books cover a variety of sports.  If these do not appeal, try browsing in the Sports area on the first floor.

Basic illustrated. Archery by Beth Habeishi & Stephanie Mallory. A handy reference for the novice or the veteran. Covers equipment, safety and technique for target shooting. 799.32 HAB

A beautiful game: football through the eyes of the world’s greatest players by Tom Watt. Untold and unique stories from the world’s top footballers on growing up and falling in love with the game. 796.334 WAT

The Daily Telegraph book of the Tour de France is a comprehensive history up to 2008. From the race’s beginning in 1903, the Telegraph has been there for every turn of the wheel. 796.62 DAI

Fishing season by Philip Weigall. A year in the life of a flyfisher - challenges, disappointments, frustrations, but most of all quiet happiness. 799.124 WEI

In a single bound: losing my leg, finding myself and training for life. A gripping memoir of inner strength by Sarah Reinersten who, despite all, became a triathlete and ultimately an ironman. 796.092 REI

Table tennis: skills, techniques, tactics by Jenny Heaton provides practical advice on the basic skills as well as advanced techniques for the serious player. 796.346 HEA