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.
Steve Fuller – Men's 1st VIII: Named after ex Robinson rower and now long time M1 coach Steve fuller, who has coached more blading crews than anny other Robinson coach in history, he also coached university lightweights.
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, he was also the stroke of blue boat.
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.