University Boat Race 2012: Oxford coach Sean Bowden bemoans lack of British talent in Olympic year Unfortunately a lot of English under-graduates are being attracted to American universities or other British universities where it's felt that there is a closer co-operation with the national teams. It is extremely difficult for us to see many quality undergraduate rowers in the university. For Stan (Louloudis) to stand up and say: 'This is what I'm going to do' - and clearly it's compromised his position to some degree - I think it shows how mature and single-minded he is. He made a decision purely on his academics. He wanted to study Classics. He's very much his own man. He's quite outstanding in that respect. All we can do is hope there are more people like Stan who have the brass neck to stand up and say what they want to do. The training demands of the Boat Race run in conflict with those of GB Rowing, who want all athletes to be based at the national centre in Caversham. Louloudis and Nash came fourth in last year's national trials only weeks after the Boat Race and it was at that point that GB performance director Dave Tanner knew they would be Olympians. Louloudis has been selected as stroke of a powerful British eight and he could well return to Oxford next term as an Olympic champion, while Nash is in the men's pair. "I think Constantine is an outstanding athlete and I'm glad it's working out for him and he got what he deserved," Bowden said. I think he's capable of even more to be honest. He's a terrific guy and a fantastic talent. It was great to have him board last year, he made a big contribution and hopefully we helped him on his way to getting in the Olympic squad. Louloudis' Oxford seat has been taken this year by Roel Haen, who will be the first Dutchman to stroke a blue boat and he is the oldest man in this year's race. Oxford are favourites to repeat their victory of last year. We are feeling good. We've had some good results in our fixtures and been producing some good speed. We are ready to go out and race," said Oxford president Karl Hudspith. Cambridge coach Steve Trapmore tasted defeat on his debut race last year and knows the Light Blues will need to be on top form to see off Oxford. We have been putting the race together for the last six months. The guys have been training really hard and they have come together really well," said Trapmore. We have a really tight team unit, they are there for each other and supporting each other. We know Oxford's very strong and will be very, very fast. We have to put it together on the day to be able to compete with the speed they are going to produce.