Nestled next to the river Derwent in central Derby, an ever growing rowing club has had a long history with this stretch of river. With just over 2000m of navigable water, Derby Rowing Club’s roots go way back to the 19th century, when in 1880 some friends in a pub decided to pick up the oar and start rowing. Fast forward to present day, where they welcome over 160 members between the ages of 12 and 85 through their doors.
In recent history Derby RC has seen a rapid expansion in both membership and equipment, with many new racing shells purchased and in the last few years a new ergo room was constructed. This increase in size has led to much success both on and off the water, including winning the Davison award at Fours Head 2022, multiple Henley Royal and Henley Women’s Regatta appearances, attending the world Masters regatta and 3 gold medals at the British Rowing Championships in 2024. They also had their first GB trialists in over 10 years, showing that the standard of rowing has dramatically increased.
After being nominated in 2022, Derby RC won the prestigious club of the year award for 2023. They were particularly commended over their real push for rowing to be an inclusive sport for everyone, regardless of background or ability. Over recent years, they have made a strong push on adaptive rowing, again giving any person a chance to try rowing. The junior squad fundraised to help those from disadvantaged backgrounds overcome the monetary boundaries that rowing has. When deciding on the awards for 2023 British Rowing were especially impressed how Derby RC was so accessible to all regardless of where members came from.
The club is led by chair Matt Ley and captain Martha Nutkins, ably supported by an enthusiastic committee. They have clearly done an excellent job, pushing the club in the right direction and making Derby RC one of the standout clubs in the country. The profile of the club has increased tenfold in recent years, so hopefully membership will continue to increase and Derby RC will continue to be a rowing club for all.
