FORMER Upper Wharfedale School pupil Andy Hodge took a significant step towards inclusion in Oxford's rowing team for the boat race against Cambridge next spring.

He was part of the 'Cowboys' team which beat the 'Indians' in a trial race on the Thames last Tuesday.

The race, between two crews selected from Oxford's core rowing squad of 20, was won by a generous four and a half lengths by the 'Cowboys' in a quick time.

Hodge, who was part of the British Olympic rowing squad in Athens, said: "Technically, they were the better team, but we were stronger and produced a pretty good row. Their plan was to get an early lead, but we broke them early. Everyone did their job brilliantly and it was a great team effort."

The Cowboys were a length in front before the end of the Fulham Wall and easily maintained their advantage.

Hodge's position in the eight-man crew was as stroke man, opposite the cox.

The four-and-a-half mile exercise was used to simulate race conditions and a similar trial was held by Cambridge the day before.

The 25 year-old, originally from Hebden, joined Oxford University this year to do a masters course after moving down south to row for Molesey Boat Club.

Next year's race between Oxford and Cambridge, scheduled for Sunday, March 27, is expected to be particularly fast.

Both crews are expected to feature several rowers with Olympic experience.

Cambridge won the last boat race when both boats clashed into each other.