President: Andy Roberts

Members: Over 120 novices, 50 seniors, 20 land members and 7 coxes

Membership: Ranges from £25 (land) to £100 (senior) per year

Meetings: Circuits on Mondays (Edge Sport Hall 2, 5pm – 6.30pm) and Thursdays (Cromer Terrace, 6 – 7.30pm) plus weight training and water outings depending on membership

Facebook: Leeds Uni Boat Club

Last Saturday, Leeds University Union’s Boat Club celebrated its 100th anniversary in style. The Centenary Ball involved a three course meal, an Olympic guest speaker, an auction and a raffle with members past and present, topped off with plenty of alcohol. Though this may fit with the rowing stereotype, this is a challenging yet fun club for all abilities and social backgrounds.

The Club offers a range of membership rates, splitting into men’s and women’s teams in both the novice and senior category. Teams train at circuits twice a week as well as at weight training, strength and conditioning sessions and on water outings in York. Training is conducted by senior members who help with the introductions and training of the novices. This is an excellent way to make new friends and learn new skills.

However, if you feel like this sounds like far too much exercise, don’t let it put you off! There is also a recreational squad which frequents the lake at Roundhay Park and you can have a go at coxing. There are also plenty of socials to keep you on your toes. Recent events have included
a Rubik’s Cube Otley Run and a pub quiz. Soon to come is the Chicken Wing Challenge and Cocktail Night – an excuse for excessive eating and drinking in the name of team bonding. The Club also hosts meals, ‘Come Dine With Me’ evenings and club nights.

Boat Club is currently in the putting together its annual naked calendar to raise sponsorship money and a Three Peaks Challenge is currently being organised. More serious future plans involve a new boathouse with Leeds City Rowing Club, with whom the Boat Club has a strong relationship. The Club also has strong links with other university and public clubs within the Yorkshire rowing community and constantly helps with equipment, transport and races when required.

Overall this is a vibrant society with opportunities for people of all abilities to get outdoors and enjoy a wide range of events and activities throughout the year.

Words: Sabrina Poole

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