9.11.12

The University’s Boat Club (LUUBC) is to produce its “most nakedest calendar yet”, with shoots taking place across Leeds and York.

Organiser, rower and model Nick Gandy described the preparations for the LUUBC calendar as “cold, daunting and uncomfortable.” Sub-zero temperatures and shyness did little to deter members, however, with a keenness to strip off being exhibited by novices and seniors alike.

“The men were very eager to get their kit off, which is always good. The challenge is getting them to put their clothes back on afterwards”, said Gandy.

Alongside photo shoots at sites such as The Edge and residences across Hyde Park, the teams exposed themselves on the banks of their regular training ground, the River Ouse, to the delight of several tourist ferries.

“We had plenty of support from local residents whilst in York,” explained Gandy, “and we did our best to cover our dignity when families walked past.”

“Although a couple of spoilsports grumbled at us, we got a huge cheer when we all jumped into the river.”

Funds raised are to be used for the furnishing of the club’s new boathouse, to be built just outside the city on the River Aire.

The building will house the dozen boats used by the various rowing teams in national competitions, providing a more convenient base of operations than the club’s current boathouse in York.

The Boat Society has enjoyed a significant surge of interest this year, nearly doubling their paid membership to over 200, making them the second largest society after the Snowriders, and the largest Union-accredited sports team at the University.

This sudden growth is largely attributed to the success of the Team GB rowing squads at the London Olympics, where British athletes retrieved a haul of nine medals in total, including four golds.

Currently the calendar is in its final stages of post-production and is due to go on sale next week. Those wishing to reserve themselves a copy in advance can email luubcfundraising@hotmail.com.

Words: Max Bruges

Image: Beth Picott