Doran, who really enjoys the rivalry too, said Oxford’s aim was to deliver their best race yet.
He mentioned they have a new coach this year and a fresh crew, including three athletes who competed at the Paris Olympics.
“We are really looking forward to the day, we are extremely determined and excited. Our best performance, we hope, is to get the job done on the day.”
Both rowers were in the last two races too – Ferraro aiming for a third straight win while Doran wants to end his losing run.
The Cambridge oarsman described winning as “an indescribable feeling”.
“To go through that much work – six months of gruelling training and a lot of sacrifice, putting your life on hold to balance the studies and the training.
“To have it pay off in the end, with such a close bunch of mates, is an unbelievable feeling.”
And his Oxford opponent added: “It’s great to feel part of something that everyone has an affiliation to and a choice in a team sport.
“I’ve always had really fond memories of being here and I’ve always wanted to this race.
“I’m really lucky to be doing my third one now.”
