Founded in 1867, Glasgow University Boat Club is one of the oldest, and most prestigious, sports clubs at the university. Fast-forward to the recent Olympics held in London and rowing has proved itself, once again, to be at the pinnacle of British sport.
In the past ten years GUBC has produced athletes that have been chosen to represent the University at various levels around the UK and Europe. The sporting world of Britain’s universities is proving to be a vital step in recognising and nurturing future stars. The 2012 Games carried the slogan, “Inspire a Generation”; and fortunately we have the facilities to do so right here.
Now for more than a century, GUBC has been harnessing talent and passion, accumulating in a fantastic set of performances and results in the 2011-2012 season. With more than 70 members forming four squads of Senior and Novice men and women, GUBC performed at a consistently high standard throughout the UK in the course of the year. The Novice Men’s VIII won their entered category at the Scottish Universities Regatta and the Scottish Championships in June saw four wins for the entered women’s crews. 2012/2013 season Boatman, Fraser Malone, was selected to race at both the Home International Regatta in Cardiff and the British National Championships, which saw him win a silver medal with pairs partner Jim Allan, from Kings College School’s rowing club on the Thames.
The Glasgow Edinburgh Boat Race, hosted annually on the River Clyde in May, saw the Men’s 1st VIII continue their domination of the course for the thirteenth consecutive year, while the Women’s 1st VIII took their first Boat Race win in eight years. With strong performances from the second and graduate crews, GUBC truly showcased the physical and mental determination that the sport requires, with stunning effect.
2012/2013 is shaping up to be an exciting season with GUSA having provided new training facilities on campus and renovations to the Boat House are imminent. While rowing is an intense and consuming sport, socials form an important element of the club. Club Captain Sally Griffiths said, “We certainly know how to have fun too. ‘Work hard, play hard’ is definitely a motto that we stand by; with regular socials and impromptu gatherings you will be welcomed into the throng.”
Whether you are already a competitive athlete or fancy trying something fresh we would love to see as many new faces as possible at our taster session on Saturday the 15th September. This will take place at our very own boathouse in Glasgow Green, so transport will be provided from the main gate and Murano halls. This taster session will give you a shot at rowing, before having a big GUBC style BBQ (beer, cider and Pimms will all be present). This is a great opportunity not only to try an excellent sport but also to meet other freshers and older students with similar interests.
Keep an eye out around campus for further information about our taster session and if you have any other questions please email [email protected] or [email protected].
