 The umpire for the race was Robert Lewis @-@ Lloyd ( who had rowed for Cambridge four times between 1856 and 1859 ) . Hammersmith Bridge was undergoing repair and during practice , the crews struggled to negotiate side @-@ by @-@ side rowing through the same arch without fouling . It was agreed that should such a foul occur during the race , a restart above the bridge would take place , with a new finishing line near Kew . Two sets of oars were taken on the umpire 's launch should such an eventuality arise and a clash result in irreparable damage . 
