RCBC is proud to maintain a fleet of five competitive racing VIIIs and two IV+s. This is made possible through the generous support of our Old Blade donors, and each boat is named after one of our most prestigious former members.
Mark Sydenham – Men’s 1st VIII: Our new Filippi purchased in time for Mays 2014. It is named after Mark Sydenham, Mens’ Captain from 2002–2004 during which the 1st VIII rose to 4th on the river and finished as the top Oxbridge college at Head of the River.
Bruce Bye – Women’s 1st VIII: Purchased in 2023 in time for Mays. It is named after the longstanding coach of the womens's side, who has been instrumental in the club's success over the years.
Tim Steele – Men’s 2nd VIII: Tim Steele rowed Mays 2001-2003, helping Robinson to our highest ever position of 4th on the River.
Matt Luscombe – Women’s 2nd VIII: Named after former Mens’ Captain Matt Luscombe (97/98). Matt trialled for CULRC and rowed Mays 1997-2000.
John Pritchard – Men’s 3rd VIII:
Named after our most famous Old Blade, John Pritchard.
Olympic medallist in Moscow 1980 and rowed in the Blue Boat from 84-86 winning in 1986.
Rowed at RCBC from 1984-1986 and has coached multiple boats to blades.
Recently completed a charity row along the entire length of the Mississippi.
(see here for more details)
James Ball – IV+: Used by all members of the club, primarily for competing in University IV’s during the Michaelmas term. Named after James Ball, who competed for Goldie in 1995 before stroking the Blue boat to victory in 1997.