Goring Gap Boat Club

On Tuesday 12 and 13 August, members of Goring Gap Boat Club enjoyed an unforgettable two-day rowing adventure along the River Thames. Setting off from St Edward’s School, Lower Wolvercote, just north of Oxford, we took to the water in three coxed Charles Stanley quad rowing boats, ready for the challenge ahead.

The route took in a beautiful and varied stretch of the Thames, with members enjoying both the challenge of steady rowing and the pleasure of the surrounding scenery. Passing through locks, bends, and historic riverside villages, the crews worked together with great spirit and teamwork, making the journey both rewarding and enjoyable.

The trip was brought to a triumphant close as the boats returned to Goring Gap, marking the end of a memorable shared achievement for the club.

This trip would not have been possible without the tireless effort and organisation of Sarah and Sean Crane, whose leadership ensured everything ran smoothly. We also owe huge thanks to our invaluable support team: Matthew Crowder, Andrew Hyde, Jonathan Pelly-Fry and of course, Richard Berkley, who kept us safe and supported throughout.

Here’s to many more river journeys ahead!

On Saturday 9 August 2025, more than 50 enthusiastic rowers from Goring Gap Boat Club traded in their oars for brooms, power hoovers, and the occasional cloth in a mission to give the boatshed a sparkling makeover. Armed with their “cleaning weapon of choice,” crews attacked stubborn stains with the same grit they’d use in a head race. Buckets sloshed, brushes swept, and someone may have attempted a power-wash sprint. By the end, the boatshed gleamed like a freshly polished hull, ready to welcome rowers to the boat club. This wasn’t just about cleaning—it was about team spirit, community pride, and proving that when rowers pull together, even the dust bunnies don’t stand a chance. With the shed shipshape and shining, the club is now set for another season of rowing, racing, and making waves—both on and off the water. Thank you to Richard for organising the event.

Another memorable day by the water at Goring Gap Boat Club. This year’s Waterside Festival for Sport in Mind was GGBC’s most engaging yet, with 45 attendees in total — including around 30 Sport in Mind participants — coming together to enjoy the calm, connection, and joy that time on the water can bring. It was truly inspiring to see 35 people take to the rowing boats and 27 try paddleboarding, many for the very first time. The sense of community, support, and shared experience was tangible throughout the day. A heartfelt thank you to the GGBC volunteers and The SUP Life team for their time, energy, and warm welcome. Moments like these remind us of the power of sport to bring people together, uplift spirits, and create lasting memories.

Sport in Mind is the UK’s leading mental health sports charity, using the power of physical activity to transform lives. Dedicated to improving the lives of people experiencing mental health challenges, the organisation delivers free, inclusive, and supportive sport and physical activity sessions in communities across the country. Whether it’s yoga in the park, football on a local pitch, or paddleboarding on calm waters, every session is designed to boost mental wellbeing, build confidence, and combat isolation. At its heart, Sport in Mind believes in the power of movement — not just to improve fitness, but to restore hope, spark joy, and create lasting connections.

Thank you to Melvyn Newman for his beautiful photography!

A great start to the Regatta

The first day of Henley Royal Regatta on Tuesday 1 July 2025, unfolded in a blaze of sunshine, spectacle, and style—and Goring Gap Boat Club’s spectators were right at the heart of it. Sporting their distinctive cream blazers with blue and terracotta trim, they brought a refined flair to the riverbank. Among the champagne flutes and the flutter of straw hats, GGBC stood out—not just for their enthusiasm, but for their elegance. From the Stewards’ Enclosure to the towpath, the club’s colours were worn with pride, perfectly capturing the spirit of Henley: timeless tradition, spirited support, and impeccable style. Well done!

On Sunday 13 April 2025, Goring Gap Boat Club proudly hosted The Goring Lap — a scenic and spirited 3.2km race in Charles Stanley Touring Boats. Nestled between the Chiltern Hills, the club’s stretch of the River Thames offered a breathtaking backdrop for the event, with early spring sunshine sparkling on the water and nature in full bloom.

The event was made possible thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers who turned out in full force. From timekeepers and marshals to cake bakers and chefs to launch drivers, (with Captain onboard), their cheerful presence brought the day to life and ensured everything ran smoothly. The buzz around the boathouse, with boats launching and visiting crews gathering on the riverbank, created a wonderful community atmosphere.

With its perfect mix of friendly competition, beautiful surroundings, and club spirit, The Goring Lap was a great success – and a fitting showcase of everything Goring Gap Boat Club stands for.

It’s about sharing this stretch of river with people who love it as much as we do.