Latest News

Alan Bright (ambright@btinternet.com), is our British Rowing qualified Junior Coach with 14 years experience. He and all assistant have CRB clearance.

Please click here to view the poster.

Please contact Alan to express interest or with any queries.

New Committee

A new committee was voted in at October’s AGM.

Chairman – Robin de Vere Green
Captain – John Cowan
Water Safety Officer – John Benest Bartrum.
Junior Representative – Will Loftus
Secretary – Alan Bright
Treasurer – Stuart Lamb

Norwich Head – 28th February 2010

Beccles Rowing club came out of hibernation last weekend to race in Norwich Head, a time trial over 4.6 km on the Yare from Bramerton Green, near the Woods End pub, to Whitlingham Green.

It was a relatively mild day with a slight tail-wind and only a slight drizzle marred the perfect conditions for the morning’s racing.

In the women’s novice double sculls the new combination of Laura Hind and Debbie Harmer finished in a good time of 20 minutes and 49 seconds despite having a couple of mechanical difficulties. Unfortunately they had no competition in their category so they will have to wait before they can assess their speed. John Cowan, in his first race for a couple of years in a single scull, finished in a disappointing time of 18 minutes and 24 seconds, 26 seconds behind the winner of IM2 single sculls.

William Loftus entered the Eastern Region Junior Trails. These were held over a shorter course of 2 km from Surlingham to Whitlingham Green. In the J16 single sculls, one of the most competitive categories of the day, he came sixth.

The sun came out for the afternoon’s racing. Mark Taylor and John Cowan had a good row and finished 2nd in the veteran handicap double sculls in a time of 18 minutes and 10 seconds.

A taster session for anyone interested in trying rowing or sculling will be held on the morning of Sunday April the 25th at the club on Pudding Moor. Rowing is a great sport for all ages whether you want to compete at the Olympics or just get out in the fresh air and enjoy the riverside wildlife. Please see the website www.becclesrowingclub.co.uk for more information or email the Club Captain jacowan4@googlemail.com

19th October 2009

Forthcoming opportunities for plenty of fun and maybe glory!

Saturday 31st October Norfolk Long Distance Sculls
Sunday 22nd November Bedford Star Small boats Head

and then, just for fun, the Carrow Cup (more details later)..about mid December.

Please liaise with your co-ordinator as soon as possible to arrange your entries

Juniors: Alan ambright@btinternet.com
Ladies: Debbie deb_d_d@yahoo.co.uk
Men: Mark kmtay@tiscali.co.uk

30th September 2009

The club’s Annual General Meeting will be held on Friday 23rd October 2009. This will be in the Council Chambers at Beccles Town Hall and starts at 7:30pm.

A big well done and congratulations to all those who took part in the Sponsored Row from Oulton Broad to Beccles on Sunday 20th September, especially Erin McGregor. It is believed that the amount raised for a new training boat is in excess of £300.

Also congratulations to the club’s chairman Robin for being awared the Eastern Region Volunteer of the Year and was nominated as British Rowing’s National Volunteer of the Year 2009. Below is a copy of the article sent to The Beccles and Bungay Journal.

Beccles Rowing Club honoured with a National Award

The British Rowing (Amateur Rowing Association) Awards Dinner was held at Wokefield Park, Reading, on 26th September. Robin de Vere Green, Chairman of Beccles Rowing Club, who had been invited to attend, was presented by Ben Hunt-Davis, Olympic Gold Medallist and British Olympic Association 2012 Project Manager, with the award for Eastern Region Volunteer of the Year. To his surprise and delight he was subsequently nominated as British Rowing's National Volunteer of the Year 2009.

Robin rowed for Oxford in his University days, and joined the Beccles Rowing Club about 15 years ago. He has been Chairman for 5 years and is currently joint Captain in addition. His citation states that he has worked tirelessly to deliver the club's new boathouse – it would have remained a dream without Robin's input, not only in terms of grant aid, but design and construction as well. Through his efforts the club has acquired not only the new boathouse, but coaching launches, ergos, new boats, new blades, a car park surfaced with waste tarmac and, most recently, solar-powered lighting to the site which is not supplied with mains electricity.

During his chairmanship club membership has trebled and there has also been an impressive increase in junior membership. On most club sessions Robin is around either supporting the coaching team, or rolling up his sleeves and getting his hands dirty. His activities have ranged from towing boats to rowing events to looking after and emptying the portaloo.

The Club has wholeheartedly put him forward for this award. Robin, with his customary modesty, says that everything which has been achieved is a joint effort.

16th September 2009

The club was well represented with 5 crews competing at Cambridge Regatta on 13th September. Congratulations to Will Loftus in winning the open novice event in a single. A full race report to follow on the Racing Results page.

This weekend (Sunday 20th September) is the Sponsored Row from Oulton Broad to Beccles. Could all those taking part please be down the club for 8am to load the trailer.

Next Saturday (September 26th) is the ‘Annual Capsize/Immersion Drill’ taking place at Bungay Pool between 5:30 and 7:30pm. This year, for the first time, the capsize drill will also include the immersion drill, where you will have the opportunity to try to get back into a boat from the water. There will also be a swimming test to check and confirm your confidence and ability in the water. This will involve swimming 50m (5m of which underwater) and treading water for 2 minutes.

It's membership renewal time again - our membership year starts in October. You can pay in one lump sum or monthly by direct debit/standing order. Please send your cheques to Stuart Lamb or James Lowry-Bartram (club membership secretary). If you wish to pay by direct debit or standing order, contact Stuart lamb for details
You only need to complete a new membership form if some of your details have changed. These can found at the top of the "Membership" page. Print one off, complete it, and send it to James Lowry-Bartram.

4th August 2009 

Racing at St Neots saw a record number of boats turning up on the start line. The boat trailer was full for the first time, expertly driven by Andrew Kershaw. Some good performances from first timers also, notably WIll Loftus, Claire McGregor and Anna Bateson....plus the return of Ben Halton-Farrow after a 3 year absence from the club since disappearing to university. No wins recorded for the club on this occasion unfortunately, but the next event is this weekend at Peterborough where we have another large field of crews entered. Good luck to those competing. Full race reports will appear on the Racing Results page shortly. 

A new approach to coaching is about to arrive. The success of Sunday mornings means we will need to spill out in to Saturday, plus we're looking to get some more coaching sorted for midweek sessions. Coaches....look out for a request of your attendance midweek....your club and clubmates need your experience to help bring home those pewter tankards! 

Liz and Midge Beedham undertook their coaching assessments on 2nd August 2009 and the club is duly proud to congratulate both of them in completing their Level 2 UK Coaching Certificate. Well done to both! 

Also, an addition to the Membership page.....a summary of Karen Kennedy's experience of Beccles RC so far. As you will know, Karen joined us back in February on the first of BRC's inductions and has grown to love the sport. Read her summary when you get a moment - it's great! Thanks Karen for taking the time to do it. 

10th June 2009

The club's first attendance at a sprint event took place on Sunday 7th June. Despite a shocking weather forecast of torrential rain, the crews packed themselves off to Peterborough at 6am for the first race scheduled for 9.12! A full report will appear on the Racing Results page shortly, but the headlines are: James Gilbert's stunning overhaul of his opposition in his novice singles heat. In last place with 250 metres to go then powering home to finish first (all supporters on the bank shouting themselves hoarse in the process) - well done James. Then there were 3 boats reaching finals: mens quadruple scull; mens veteran novice double scull; and mens intermediate 3 double scull. All three finalists came in third. A support crew of Claire, Erin and James McGregor (all there to take in the experience of a major regatta) along with Kelly Holmes provided invaluable assistance to the tired crews - thanks for coming! With such a busy schedule the boats were eventually tucked back to the shed at 10pm - a long, but enjoyable day! See photos of the day in the gallery.

Also on the gallery are photos of the "Boat Race Day" held, unsurprisingly, on boat race day!

Beccles Middle School came along on 9th June. They came to the club to learn more about rowing for their science project. 13 children arrived and learnt about the differences between sweep rowing and sculling, nutirition, kit and technique, all culminating in a session in trainer boats. Their aim is to "sell" rowing at a presentation night that takes place on 25th June at St Felix School in Southwold.

The club's next new boat will soon be afloat. A new Swift double scull will soon be available for use now that its riggers have arrived. This boat will be used for our competing crews. If you have a desire to compete at regattas coming up then let Phil know that you're interested.

Finally for now, the revised club handbook is now available is available on the Safety page - take a look for some helpful info about the club and rowing generally.

4th June 2009

Firstly, a warm welcome to our new induction crew: Gemma, Helen, Teresa, Laura, James and Mike. It's great that you've found us and we welcome you to the club.

Also on the subject of new club members, we will soon be joined by Alan and Beryl Bright. The Brights are joining us from the Dart Totnes Rowing Club and have chosen Beccles RC as their club of choice - we're told this is largely due to the article that appeared in the Rowing and Regatta magazine around 18 months ago. (If you'd like to see the feature, it's framed and up on the clubroom wall at the club). We look forward to welcoming Alan and Beryl once their house purchase goes through (fingers crossed!).

On the subject of Rowing and Regatta magazine - this is one of the benefits of being a member of the ARA (Amateur Rowing Association). By paying for your subscription you will also benefit from personal accident and liability insurance and will provide you with a racing licence - a prerequisite for those intending to race. Cost for adults is around £40 and details can be found on the ARA website (check the links page to get there).

On the subject of racing, good luck to the first sprinters of the season who head out to Peterborough on Sunday 7th June. There are 5 events entered (a quadruple scull, 2 double sculls and 2 single sculls) so let's hope for silverware. A win at Peterborough (an event that attracts crews from all over the country) is a precious and hard fought thing.

Also, a first for Beccles RC, as Jon Benest-Bartram becomes Beccles RC's first ever rowing umpire, taking control for some of the races at Peterborough. Good luck, Jon.

As you will probably know - or may have guessed - the club depends on all possible sources of revenue to remain afloat (pardon the pun) and to continue to improve. We're trying to arrange a sponsored row to Oulton Broad on the first week of July. Ideally involving as many juniors and novice rowers as we can muster (aswell as the more experienced too, of course). If you're free, let Phil know. It would be good to get as many boats undertaking the journey as possible! The aim is to generate funds to acquire a further training boat to assist with future induction sessions.

Next week the club throws open it's doors to some of the children of Beccles Middle School. Each year they undertake a project to explore particular sports as part of their science syllabus. This year they've chosen something different, and asked if Beccles RC can help them understand rowing. If anyone can be around at the club next Tuesday from midday, again, let Phil know.

This year, BRC celebrates hitting the big 2-0! There's a suggestion doing the rounds that there ought to be a club ball to celebrate. We've never taken on anything quite so extravagant so it would be good to test demand. Let's put a provisional date on it of August so our university types are likely to be around! Let us know what you think by dropping an e-mail to enquiries@becclesrowingclub.co.uk.

Finally, a new edition of the club handbook will be made available. A useful resource originally put together by James Lowry-Bartram (our Water Safety Advisor). Have a look under the Safety Page soon to check it out.

12th May 2009

The new boats that we've been successful in applying for have arrived with two more to follow. So far we have the new Swift double and single sculls. The new safety boat will arrive shortly and then we're just waiting on the new single scull which chould be with us next month. The new single is challenging so Phil has

The racing season is bearing down on us quickly. Phil has asked for anyone interested in competing to make themselves (and their availability) known so that we can organise preparation for each of the events we'll get to over the course of the sprint season. The first will be Peterborough on the first weekend of June.

Also on the subject of racing is the latest kit order "window" which closes on May 15th. Get your order in now to give yourself the best chance of benefitting from a bulk order. In case you're unaware, if you're racing for the club then you must be wearing club colours (there is the possibility of being disqualified if not!).

Phil is planning to run a sculling "proficiency test" morning at 8am on Saturday 23rd May. We have 6 single sculls so that's the maximum number that can be catered for. The first six to submit names will be on the team sheet. Respond to Phil at philipmarler@btinternet.com to reserve your place.

The next induction programme is also about to kick off. We have a number of potential new members lined up so please make yourselves known to them if you see new faces around the club.

Ben, Liz and Midge (our newly qualified coaches) are soon to begin their practical assessments. Guinea pigs have been selected and our new coaches will be working with them to be able to prove to an ARA assessor that they know how to put together a progressive training programme and manage sessions safely. Good luck to them! However, poor old Ben has gone an injured himself (not whilst rowing, by the way) which should delay his coaching assessment.

Find latest updates on the Race Reports page too, along with some new photos in the Gallery - just click on the buttons above.

8th March 2009

First of all.....a date for your diaries....What Phil is trying to sort out is a "Club Race Day" on 29th March. Firstly, this depends on whether we can generate sufficient interest. It would kick off at around 2pm in the afternoon and replace the scheduled Sunday morning regular session. This is available to EVERYONE - that includes juniors, veterans and very veteran rowers in the club!! The aim will be to create 2 teams (let's call them "Cambridge" and "Oxford" for example!) for some fun racing then perhaps a barbeque while we watch the propoer Oxbridge boat race in the afternoon....Any takers? E-mail Phil on philipmarler@btinternet.com or marlerp@norwich-union.co.uk. It should be fun!

Now, as you may have picked up from the note above, we have new members among us! They are Karen, Flavio and Gianni and they have joined for our first induction programme. These intrepid soulds will be following the programme then, if the mood takes them, will move on to the proficiency tests to polish up their sculling techniques. Please make them feel welcome if you bump in to them!

Also new to the club is returning club member Debbie Harmer who has been away for an extended absence, but couldn't resist the draw of the water now she is resident again within distance of the club. Welcome back Debbie. It's good to see you return.

What you may also have picked up on is the fact that we will soon be able to watch TV at the club. This is thanks to the installation of solar power. The installation is now almost complete. Thanks to Robin for getting that sorted for us - another great success.

Talking of great successes, 3 crews from BRC went off to the Norwich Head Race on 28th February to race on the River Yare outside Norwich. The crews were the ladies senior 4 coxed 4, the mens novice double and the mens quadruple scull. The course is an arduous 4.6km. Have a read of the race report when it arrives in the Racing Results section for full details of they got on.

The racing calendar soon moves to sprint racing from next month. Although the next race we attend will be the last head race of the season (for us anyway) at Bedford on 5th April. Anyone interested in competing there should make themselves known to Phil asap.

As we are always looking at ways that we can raise funds for our club, James Lowry-Bartram has established a recycling bin for old inkjet cartridges. This is now in place at the club. Any you may have at home, please drop them in to the box in situ in the club room. The paper bin, situated on the car park of the pharmacy at Worlingham, is another way to raise fund for the club, as is attendance at the monthly quiz nights held at the Bear and Bells pub on the second Sunday of each month (thanks to Jon, and various others for keeping this going).

On the subject of fundraising, and something worth it's own mention is the receipt of £118 of funds via the Easyfundraising website. There is a link at the top of this page and if you register Beccles RC as you chosen cause, we will receive a percentage of any purchases you make via the website. They are lined up with hundreds of retailers. Have a look....it's really easy to use and we have some momentum in the club with this initiative. The more we use it, the more we earn - even if it is only pennies per transaction.

Just a reminder also re the Ergo Board. As we approach the shorter sprint races, it's time to have a stab at the 1000m piece. Let's see if we can get a 100% involvement in this this month. We'll be looking out for new times being logged. (Remember: for under 16's you can halve the distance!)

31st January 2009

Great news. Following tirelss efforts by our Chairman (Robin DeVere Green) we can now expect the arrival of power at the clubhouse enabling erg sessions into the evening and will enable an early resumption to evening sessions on the water. Well done to Robin for another tremendous achievement.

Almost half the entire club turned out on 28th January for the club's first ever "Train the Trainer" session - much to the delight of new Club Captain, Phil Marler. We were also supported by the regional Coaching & Development Officer (Jeff Elms) and our thanks go to him for making the journey from Lincolnshire and for his valuable contribution on the night. This is the first step to improve the delivery of training to our club membership. This is a vital next step in the development of the club as we embark on quarterly intakes on new members - the first of which is scheduled for the last weekend of February. It'll be "all hands on deck" to welcome those new members and get them working through the Club's induction programme and proficiency tests - which all club members are being encouraged to work through to establish a solid foundation to their technical skills.

The first month of the "ergo board" for registering times on the rowing machines (or ergo's in rowing circles) has seen a mass of activity towards the end of the month. The challenge for February is the arduous 30 minutes piece - which develops an excellent cardio-vascular fitness base to set everyone up for the even more demanding sprint season which is lurking just around the corner.

The lull in the racing calendar for Beccles is about to be rudely broken. The next race we are aiming for is the Nowich Head race on 28th February - a 4500 metre time trial. The mens quad have already signalled their intent to race - aiming to emulate their outstanding performance in November when they were the fastest crew over the same course that will be raced over at the end of the month. Any other crews who are relishing the prospect of racing should make their intentions known to Phil via enquiries@becclesrowingclub.co.uk.

Following the recent EGM that appointed the new committee, the squad co-ordinator roles have now been filled. Liz Beedham, Mark Taylor and Phil Marler will assume responsibility for women, men and juniors respectively.

Each Sunday all club members are requested to add their name to the whiteboard which shows when they intend to row for the following week. Organisation has been difficult in the past and this is one way we aim to get to grips with this. A further aid will be a boat allocation board, so on arrival everyone will know what boat and equipment to use. To make life easier to organise club members should aim to arrive 10 minutes BEFORE the 8am or 10am sessions to ensure best use of time available.

The Broads Authority have once again demonstrated their commitment to our club by sponsoring the cost of 3 new Amateur Rowing Association (ARA) coaches. The individuals taking part will be long standing supporters of the club: Liz & Imogen "Midge" Beedham and Ben Turner. Their course takes place at Norwich in March which will take our total number of qualified coaches to an outstanding 8!! That's 20% of our membership! Good luck to those taking part.....

Further photos follow for the gallery.....but again, the request goes out to anyone who has photos that could be contributed.

6th January 2009 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! The Club's 20th year no less! In case you haven't seen them, James Gilbert has produced a commemorative (personalised) mug. Very nice they are too and available at a very reasonable rate of £5. If you'd like one, drop an e-mail to enquiries@becclesrowingclub.co.uk stating what name you would like on your mug.

The Club's annual Christmas Dinner at the Swan House in Beccles was held on 12th December and was an excellent evening. Many thanks to Ben Turner for pulling it together. Fine dining and wine was consumed and revellers danced into the night under the stars (believe it or not!). Someone was taking photos on the night so it would be great to have some of those for the Gallery - whoever you were.

The Rose Bowl (the club's annual award for outstanding achievement) was awarded to the club's long serving club captain, Jon Benest-Bartram, who has decided to step down after 16 years of service. His replacement, Phil Marler, was voted in during December at an EGM. 

The arrival of the "Erg-board" has got the ergos whizzing aswell - the challenge for January is to complete a 5,000m piece. For anyone under 16, the distance is halved. This kind of land based training is a great test of stamina and will also serve really well for the upcoming races in February, so now is the time to get involved. It isn't about being quickest....but making improvements in your own performances - so don't be put off by John Cowan's ludicrously quick time!

There is a new coach in residence at BRC - Matt Lawes successfully completed his Level 2 UK Coaching Certificate on 5th January. Well done, Matt!

Another coaching course comes up in March and will take place on our doorstep in Norwich. If you're keen to take part let Phil Marler now by e-mail - philipmarler@btinternet.com. Funding is available so don't let cost stop you. You will need to commit to 2 full weekends plus a further assessment day (which can take place at Beccles).

2nd December 2008

NOTICE OF AN EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING - Sunday, 14th DECEMBER 2008 at 10am
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss and vote on a new constitution for the club to reflect a new committee structure which will slim down the number who sit on the committee making decision making more effective. There are a number of support roles in addition. Full details are available by e-mailing the Club Secretary at liz.beedham@aol.com. The club cannot survive without the voluntary efforts of its membership, so if you would like to get involved please register your interest with Liz at the same e-mail address.

Did you know that Beccles Rowing Club is amongst the top 30 in the world...? It is if you know where to look!! Our rowing machines ("erg"s in rowing parlance) are made by Concept 2 - the rowing industry standard, as seen in gyms around the country and the world. Concept 2 have, on their web site, an online logbook where you can register all of your metres that you complete on the erg as part of your training. You can get involved and help drive Beccles up the rankings. Simply set up your own account at the following link, noting Beccles as your club, and start adding your metres each time you complete an erg session (http://www.concept2.co.uk/motivation/). It's a great way to stay motivated and you can measure your efforts alongside your clubmates.

The Christmas meal is booked for 12th December at the Swan House. There is still time to book your place. Contact Ben Turner at benrturner@aol.com if you still wish to come along. There's quality food and entertainment lined up and the company should be pretty good too!

Finally, a few pictures have been added to the Gallery - our entrants (with the exception of Mark Taylor) for 2008 Norfolk Sculls, a couple of pictures of Midge Beedham receiving her Young Persons Award from Beccles Town Council, a picture of our old shed (lest we forget where we have come from!), a picture of a recent junior sculling school and one of the senior mens coxed four from last year. Enjoy! If you have any of your own that you'd like to share, send them across.  

19th November 2008

Beccles secured another win at the Norfolk Long Distance Sculling race at the weekend. Not only that, but a Beccles crew was the fastest on the day which we believe may be the first time that's happened at this event (does anyone with a long memory know otherwise?). Find the full race report on the Racing Results page. Photos should arrive in the Gallery soon. Well done to all those that took part.

10th November 2008

Last Friday's AGM was well attended and reviewed many of the club's activities (on and off the water) over the past year plus a glance in to the future with discussions happenign over coming weeks re the new committee structure and possibility of solar-powered lighting being added to the boathouse. Thanks to all those who made the effort to come along.

It would appear from the AGM that many of the club membership are uncertain of the ways you can help the club raise funds. The club relies on its fundraising actitvity. Below is a summary of how you can help for very little effort:

Paper recycling - the club is paid helpful income for filling the waste paper bin that sits in the car park of Worlingham Pharmacy. Simply collect your paper rather than throwing it in your nearest bin. Every time the bin is emptied BRC receives a "landfill subsidy".

200 Club - costs only £12 per year. If each member were to have only one entry, this would generate £250  for the club, and in the meanwhile you could win cash prizes each month. Forms can be downloaded from the link below (see item under 11th September 2008)
 

Easyfundraising - the button on the top right of the BRC site takes you through to the Easyfundraising page. Easyfundraising has arranged with 100's of retailers that a percentage of every online purchase you make will be paid to the club. You are charged exactly the same on-line price as you would otherwise - quite literally "money for nothing"

If ever you wonder, on those cold and rainy days through winter, why on earth you turn out to row on our stretch of the Waveney, check out the photo submitted by Stuart Lamb from a recent autumnal morning in a single scull (find a copy in the Gallery aswell). Fantastic photo, Stuart - thanks for submitting it. Does anyone else have any photos from around the club that they'd like to share? Submit them via webmaster@becclesrowingclub.co.uk

Crews from Beccles are racing again at the weekend. The mens quad has its second run out of this head race (time trial) season as does the mens novice double of Will Loftus and Charley Earl - good luck to all those competing over the 4.5km course.

24th October 2008

It's here at last....Beccles Rowing Club online kit ordering has arrived. You'll see above that there is a new Kit Ordering button. Click on that and then through to the following link on that page to order your new kit. Our first bulk ordering window is open until 7th November to ensure your orders arrive for Christmas. Remember that anyone racing is required to wear club colours, so get ready for the next season!! Well done to Mark Adcock for pulling this together.

22nd October 2008

Crews from the club attended the Bedford Fours and Small Boats Head race on 12th October. No pots for the club this time, but a sensational day for rowing. No wind, beautiful sunshine and plenty of support. Thanks to Andrew Kershaw for providing the transport to tow the trailer and well done to all those who took part: Allan Bliss in the mens single, Will Loftus and Charley Earl in the mens double, Midge Beedham in the Womens single and Mark Adcock, Mark Taylor, John Cowan and Phil Marler in the quad scull (giving the boat it's first racing outing for Beccles). A full report will be added to the Racing Results page in the next few days. See some new photos from Bedford too on the Gallery page.

New kit website is now imminent. If you need any new kit keep an eye on this page. It'll be days now. You'll be able to click on the page and order what you want. There will be a number of ordering "windows" through the year so, as a club, we can benefit from bulk purchasing discounts. As more members get in to racing, racing kit will be required - put it on your Christmas lists!

By way of a reminder, the AGM is scheduled for 7th November and takes place at the Beccles Town Council Chambers. A revised club structure could be up for discussion so would be good to see as many there as possible.

Also, another reminder.....the Christmas Meal takes place at Swan House in Beccles on 12th December. All those interested in attending should make their intentions clear to anyone on the committee. Cash is required in advance.

And....YET another reminder!!....every year the club requires a new membership form to be completed. If you haven't already done so then you're overdue!! Please complete one and send it (or hand it) to James Lowry-Bartram as soon as you can. They are available to download from the Membership Page above, or there is a plentiful supply in the clubhouse on the noticeboard. Fees are payable now and can be paid upfront ot by standing order (interest free!).

A new event is scheduled on the racing calendar - Eastern Region Small Boats Head race. The Club Captain will be asking for crews to attend as we have fostered good relationships with the Isle of Ely RC who are hosting the event. The race is for singles, doubles and pairs and will be raced over 4km.

30th September 2008

Great news! Matt Lawes completed the 31.2 mile course of the Boston Marathon on Sunday 21st September and won his event (Senior 4 single sculls) to boot. Well done to Matt who now leaves us for his new term at university.

On the subject of racing, the club kicks off the head season with a visit to Bedford for their 2km race. A new men's quad (Mark Adcock, Mark Taylor, John Cowan and Phil Marler) will be heading out there along with our junior crews of Charlie Earl and Will Loftus in the Novice double scull, "Midge" Beedham in the Novice Single, and undertaking his first race in a single for a while is Allan Bliss. Good luck to all.

The last club news update mentioned a new kit supplier. The chosen company will be Godfrey who will produce a Beccles kit ordering page which you will be able to link through from this website. There will be a number of order "windows" each year to help us get bulk purchase discounts. The first window will be timed to coincide with Christmas - so get your wish lists ready. Visit the website soon and look out for a new "Kit Ordering" button.

Look out for details of the Beccles RC Christmas Dinner. This year it takes place on Friday 12th December at Swan House in Beccles town centre. Orders should be placed with Ben Turner on any given Sunday morning.

Another date for your diary is 7th November - that's the date of the club's Annual General Meeting. All members are encouraged to attend to voice their views on the running of the club. The meeting starts at 7.30pm and takes place at Beccles Council Chambers in the town centre (opposite the church).

A reminder to anyone who has not yet completed a membership renewal form. They are required each year and are downloadable from the "Membership" above. Subscriptions are now due, so please don't delay.

11th September 2008

Some new faces blasted on to the racing scene in the name of Beccles Rowing Club at the weekend. Check out the race report from Cambridge Sprint Regatta on the Racing Results page. Unfortunately some freak storms led to an early cessation of racing leaving some crews - notably Jon and Matt - short changed. Well done to those who made the journey though - especially those racing for the first time.

You may well have seen that the club is currently promoting its 200 Club. It's a mini-lottery, drawn once per month. Forms are now downloadable from the website. (see below).

Beccles Rowing Club 200 Form

The start of the head race season (time trials over long distances) starts now, so we look forward to getting the Beccles name out on the circuit. Have a word with Jon Benest-Bartram (Club Captain) if you intend to race over the autumn and winter months.

A new kit supplier has been selected. If any of you need kit, keep an eye on the web site for further details.

It's membership renewal time again - our membership year starts in October. Everyone is requested to complete a fresh membership form each year. You will find these at the top of the "Membership" page. Print one off, complete it, and hand it to James Lowry-Bartram (our membership secretary). You can pay in one lump sum or monthly by direct debit.

We're delighted to announce that Wrights Motors have decided to sponsor the website for another year. Their support is much appreciated. If you're looking for a new or second hand car, click on the link from the home page.

Finally, good luck to our intrepid juniors who undertake a 24hour ergo challenge on the weekend of 13th and 14th of September to raise funds for the club. Good luck to all taking part.

20th August 2008

Crews from Beccles competed at Peterborough on 9th and 10th of August. Find the full race report on the Racing Results page. Well done to those who made the journey to compete and to support too.

All club members will find an envelope waiting for you at the club. This relates to the Club's "200 Club" - a mini lottery game, drawn once per month. This is a useful fundraiser for the club and all club members, and anyone else for that matter, are encouraged to have a flutter. The cost is only £12 per year, which gives you one ticket per month. However, you can pay more and have as many tickets as you like!! Please get involved to help your club.

On the subject of fundraisers, please don't forget the Easyfundraising link at the top of the page. If you're buying anything on the internet, check whether your chosen retailer is listed on Easy fundraising. They have arranged with selected retailers, to pay a percentage of the purchase price to our club AND it doesn't cost you any extra!! The club has recently received a cheque for £15 from this - can you help?!!

Next event for the club is also the last regatta of the season - Cambridge Autumn - on 7th September. Anyone interested in competing should register their interest with Jon (Club Captain). We're eagerly anticipating a showing from some of the junior members at the club - good luck!!

30th July 2008

What a day the club had a St Neots regatta!! Equalling the club's best ever single day at a regatta with 4 winners (from 5 entries) was a great way to underline the clubhouse's official opening. Read the full report and have a look at the photos in the gallery. There were many friends and family who were cheering on the Beccles crews to victory so thanks to them for their efforts too.

23rd July 2008

A number of things going on around the club - mainly the successful official launch party for the club's new boathouse. A crowd of nearly 100 turned out to mark the occasion where a commemorative plaque was unveiled and the new coxless pair was named. The pair wears the name of Jackie Breezer - Norfolk slang for dragonflies - the emblem of the Broads Authority, whose Sustainable Development Fund provided the fund to acquire the boat. There will be a full report here very soon with photos in the gallery. If anyone has any photos of the day, please send them to philipmarler@btinternet.com.

Phil Marler has been raising funds for the club (and for East Anglian Childrens Hospices) by completing the marathon 3 Peaks Challenge. This involves scaling the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales all in the space of 24 hours. Well, we're pleased to report that Phil managed to complete the task in a time of 20 hours and 40 minutes - this despite severe pain in his left knee. Well done to Phil - raising £250 for club funds in the process. Have a look at the gallery for a photo which gives an indication of the weather faced during the event! If anyone has any other ideas to raise funds, let someone know - we're all ears....!

Midge Beedham has now departed for her trip to Peru, so wasn't around for her presentation of her Eastern Region Volunteer of the Year Award. We wait for the result of the award for the National prize which was announced at the weekend.

Crews are now prepared to compete at St Neots regatta - crews are competing in both Saturday (1000m) and Sunday (500m) races. There are a number of crews attending and we wish them all well. The weather looks good....so much better than last year when the event was cancelled due to flooding.

Also note that the report from the last Peterborough Regatta is on the racing results page.

Click Picture to Enlarge

1st June 2008

Crews from Beccles attended the Early Summer Regatta at Peterborough on 8th June - namely a mens novice coxed 4 (that also doubled up to Senior 4), a mixed coxed four and a junior double crewed by Rebecca and Anna. This was Rebecca and Anna's first race and the first junior crew competing for the club in some while - so well done to them. A full report will appear on the Racing results page shortly.

The club's official opening of the new boathouse has now been confirmed as the 20th July - it will be good to see as many members there as possible. If you haven't yet received an invite then you can simply confirm your attendance to Robin directly at robin_de_vere_green@hotmail.com.

Phil is undertaking the 3 Peaks Challenge at the end of this month. This gruelling event requires participants to walk the highest peaks of Scotland, England and Wales all within 24 hours (including the driving in between!). Phil has decided to get sponsorship for completing the event with proceeds being split between the East Anglian Children's Hospices and the rowing club. Look out for sponsorship forms at the club. Any pledge will be gratefully received and may just encourage him up those hills!

30th May 2008

News received just today, has confirmed that following the club's nomination earlier this year, our very own Midge Beedham has been selected as the Eastern Region's Junior Volunteer of the Year! This is the first time any member from Beccles has been recognised in this way on the regional stage and reflects Midge's contribution to the running of the club. Midge's name now goes forward for judging in the national competition which takes place at the National Championships later this year. Well done to Midge for all her efforts - please keep up the good work!

25th May 2008

First and foremost, some more fantastic news for members John and Lorna Collins who became proud parents for the second time to another baby girl. We wish all of the extended Collins family a helthy and happy future together - well done to all, and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Racing - see the latest update from a successful trip to Cambridge by Nick and Ben in Senior 4 double sculls- well done guys, reward for the effort being put in to training. Have a look in the gallery for piccies of them in action.

Whilst on the subject of racing, the club is on its travels on 8th June 2008 - heading off to Peterborough this time. This is a prestigious event and there are a number of crews going along hoping for success. Good luck to all those racing including Jake Beale and James Gilbert, racing for the first time in the mens Novice 4.

The new coxless pair and quadruple scull have arrived. Again, piccies are available in the gallery.

As the club embarks on racing glory this season, all club members are reminded to ensure they have up to date rowing licences via the ARA. These are renewable on-line via www.ara-rowing.org/membership

Whilst on the subject of racing, it is also important to ensure all competing members are wearing the correct kit. Anything you need can be ordered via Mark Adcock. Hunt him out on a Sunday morning if you have any requirements.

The official open day for the new boathouse has been fixed for 20th July. There'll be a barbeque and various special guests to officially open the new site. We hope all members can make it. It should be quite a party.

Just a reminder to all members - if you have any articles you'd like to see on the website or comments/testimonials about your own experiences, e-mail them to philipmarler@btinternet.com. We'd be delighted to hear from you.

10th March 2008

First of all, some new arrivals within the club. The first, belonging to James Lowry-Bartram and his wife Michelle - "CONGRATULATIONS" to both on the arrival of baby Emily who arrived on 1st March 2008! Really good news - we hope to see you all soon.

Secondly, new boats have arrived!! Thanks to a successful grant application to the Broads Authority, we have been able to acquire 2 new boats. One is a coxless quad scull which can be switched to a coxless 4 (sweep oar boat) the other is a double scull which can be converted a coxless pair. Both give the club new options for racing. These boats should only be used with permission of the club captain but are expected to be in active service imminently.

BRC announces the official launch day of the new boathouse. The committee have decided that the official launch of our new club house should be 20th July - note it in your diary now as it will be great to have a full turnout on the day. The date coincides with a planned visit from Ely Rowing Club, so there'll be a party atmosphere, a BBQ as well as some rowing too. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.

In preparation for the opening ceremony, there are still some jobs that need to be done to get the boathouse finished. A maintenance day is being arranged for Saturday 12th April. Start time is 9am. Bring a paint brush. There was a suggestion that bacon sandwiches may be served in case you needed some persuasion!

Calling all photographers.....if you have any photos to add to the gallery, send them through to enquiries@becclesrowingclub.co.uk. Rowing, social, or anything else.....

Heres a few thoughts about easy ways to raise club funds...

Don't forget to keep using the Easyfundraising link. It costs you absolutely nothing to you, but the retailer that you buy your goods from will make a donation to your club. Simply click on the link above which will direct you to Easyfundraising's site, choose your retailer then shop, shop, shop. There are some big names on there including Tesco Home, Amazon, WH Smith, etc. Between club members so far we have raised almost £15 but we can do better than that!

Also, on the Easyfundraising subject, you can use Easysearch as your search engine. Each search will add to our fund-raising total. Add it to your favourites....

Finally, how much scrap paper does your household generate? The club has a waste paper bin situated on the car park of the pharmacy in Worlingham. The club receive money for the paper that we put in this bin. Instead of using the blue recycling bin, put your paper to one side and drop it in when you're passing. Not just newspaper can go in, telephone directories, Argos catalogues, junk mail - it all counts. Last year the club raised over £120, but this year we have so many more members!
 

Howards Financial Services act as Agents for Halifax in Norfolk, Suffolk & Cambridgeshire and we have a special arrangement with them where they will pay £20 to the club for each successful application for a Halifax credit card. For every Halifax One Card successfully applied for (& activated for security purposes) via the Howards Financial Services website (www.howardsfinancialservices.co.uk) then click on the Halifax link (on the right of the homepage). Let Robin know that you have completed your transaction and Howards will donate £20 to the appeal. The offer will be available to family, friends, committee & other contacts. If in the case of say a partner - as long as they successfully apply independently - then £40 will be donated!

• You do not have to Bank with Halifax
• You do not even have to use the card (for those credit averse)
• No annual fees for the card
• Available in Black or Pink!
• Card features in National "Best Buy" tables
• 0% for 9 months on purchases
• 0% for 9 months on balance transfers (transfer fee 3%)
• Up to 59 days interest free credit on purchases if you pay off your balance in full each month
• Simple application
• Secure and confidential Halifax application link
• Howards not aware of any personal information input - only name & postcode

Keep an eye out for more updates soon

30th January 2008

Midge Beedham picks up an award from Beccles Town Council for her work on the club committee as junior representative, her efforts on the water and contribution to the coaching of our junior members - well done, Midge! Each year the club awards the coveted Rose Bowl to the member of the club who has contributed an outstanding effort for the club. This was awarded at the Christmas Dinner and this year's holder is Midge Beedham (yet another accolade!! Well done, and thanks for your efforts, Midge)

Rowing machines have arrived at Beccles! For use by all members, these will be a great way of warming up before outings and cooling down afterwards. If you're unfamiliar with how to work these machines, have a word with the senior members who should be able to show you the ropes.

Thanks to Nick and Ben for producing the social calendar for the year. There'll be regular events throughout the months and some special events too. Look out for Summer barbeques and long distance "row-outs" to Burgh St Peter for Sunday lunch! See the attached document with the full details.

Social Calender 2008

The racing season is shortly going to kick off again, signalling the beginning of the end of winter! The new and improved men's coxed four are heading for Bedford on the 10th February, there will also be a Beccles contingent at the Norwich Head race on 23rd February. Good luck to all those flying the Beccles RC flag. For copies of the latest press releases, see the "Racing Results" page.

An announcement from the Club Captain: "All crews are reminded that they must be back to the boathouse (with boats on the racks) by 9.45am to ensure the junior session can proceed without delay"

A reminder about Easyfundraising (see the new button at the top of this page). If you are making on-line purchases, check out whether your selected retailer is listed and they will make a donation towards the club - thanks in advance!

The date for this year's Beccles vs Bungay Boat Race has been fixed for 29th March 2008. Further details to follow....

To help raise club funds, some of our members will be holding a stall at a local car boot sale. Any items that you've got around the house and have been meaning to get rid of for ages would be very welcome. Just bring them along to the next club session."

News Archive

You will notice on the pages of the web-site a new link. It is a great new way for the club to raise funds. Easyfundraising has made arrangements with 500+ on-line retailers so that, without any extra charge to you, a donation will be made to our club. This varies from relatively small amounts up to 15% of your purchase value.

The names from whom you can make purchases include Amazon, WH Smiths and HMV. All you have to do is click on the Easyfundraising link and then head off from there to the retailer of your choice and use it as normal. The retailer's site will recognise that you have come via the Beccles RC Easyfundraising page and credit us with a donation! It's that simple. All we need to do is spread the word. Make anyone you know aware - they do not have to be club members!

Each year the club requires every member to complete a membership form to ensure our records are correct. Can you please complete the  form that's relevant to you - even if you have already paid your annual subscription. The forms are downloadable from the Membership page. If you are unable to print there will be copies on the clubhouse notice board from this coming weekend.

The Club undertook a "get the boathouse finished day" on Sunday 16th December. Thanks to all of those that took part. We made some great progress. In the Gallery are some pictures of the additional pontoon sections being "launched". Although we appear to be close to finishing the boathouse there is still plenty of work to be done. If you find you have some spare time over the Christmas period and  feel the urge to help out with jobs around the club then speak to Jon about what needs to be done.

For those of you who regularly read the Rowing and Regatta magazine - sent to all ARA members - you may be surprised when you see the December edition because Beccles is the featured club in the regular "Club Spotlight" slot. Yet more evidence of the ascendancy of BRC. You can review the article online by clicking on the document below which is kindly provided courtesy of the Amateur Rowing Association and Rowing & Regatta magazine. Grab yourself a cup of tea and have a read - enjoy!

Click Here To Read The Article

"SOME FANTASTIC NEWS FOR BECCLES RC - Robin has received news that the club has been successful in its application for a grant which will allow us to extend our pontoon to allow more boats to get on the water - reducing the queues that form on a Sunday morning - and will allow us to invest in two Concept2 rowing machines which will enable us to really get in to land based training. This is yet more evidence of the momentum that the club has behind it at the moment - thanks to all for your contribution (just being an active members helps support our grant applications!)." - See pictures in the Gallery