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Welcome to the new and improved Ross Rowing Club newsletter! As we transition from summer on the river to autumn on the ergo, this edition also embraces change, while keeping you connected to the heart of our rowing community.
Inside, you’ll find the newsletter neatly divided into three sections: Club News, bringing you the latest updates; Club Events, highlighting key dates and upcoming activities; and Club Spotlight, where we celebrate what truly makes Ross Rowing Club special—its people. Dive in and enjoy!
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Above: Jackie Baynham, Rachel Wales, Nicky Wild & Sue Thompson at WOX Coxing Conference 2024.
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Leander Club—a name that resonates across the globe as the pinnacle of rowing success. As the world’s most prestigious and decorated rowing club, its legacy is etched in history with a remarkable record of coaching athletes who go on to challenge for a place in the Great Britain rowing squad. Most recently, at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Leander’s athletes made history once again, securing an impressive 21 Olympic and Paralympic medals.
On Sunday, 29th September, Leander hosted the WOX Coxing Conference 2024, an event designed specifically for coxes, rowers, and coaches. WOX, short for Winning Coxes, brought together some of the sport’s brightest minds to share invaluable knowledge and experience with the wider rowing community. Representing Ross Rowing Club were Jackie Baynham, Rachel Wales, Nicky Wild, and Sue Thompson, who travelled to this unique and insightful event.
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Left photo: Jackie Baynham with her daughter, Team GB’s Morgan Baynham-Williams.
Right photo: Jackie with Harry Brightmore, gold medallist in the Paris M8+.
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The conference was the brainchild of Ross’s very own Morgan Baynham-Williams, daughter of Jackie, herself a Team GB athlete. Morgan, alongside five other mentors—each an Olympian or World Champion—led the day’s programme.
Morgan’s rowing résumé speaks volumes: victories at the Henley Royal Regatta and The Boat Race (Oxford), gold at the 2022 World Rowing Championships, and a silver from the European Championships. Alongside five other Olympians and World Champions, she created an agenda designed to give back to the sport in the most meaningful way possible.
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Above: Sue Thompson learning all about rigging a boat at Leander Club.
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The session was a treasure trove of insight, covering a range of essential skills and strategies. Attendees learned how to rig their boats for optimal performance, develop advanced rigging techniques, write personalised development plans, and grasp the fundamentals of ergo training. The conference also provided hands-on experience in data analysis, including the use of telemetry to enhance performance on the water.
After a day spent absorbing knowledge from some of the sport’s brightest minds, the ladies of Ross returned with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the finer details that can make or break a crew’s performance.
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Above: Karen Thorpe-Williams (L) and Bianca Brisc (R) celebrate after their victory.
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Ross Rowing Club made a splash at the 144th Penarth Rowing Club Regatta, marking a thrilling day of coastal rowing that attracted the highest level of interest and entries in the event’s history. The competition was fierce, but the spirit light-hearted, as scratch crews formed for an unforgettable day by the sea.
Among the standout performances, Bianca Brisc and Junior Captain Karen Thorpe-Williams clinched victory in the Women’s Open 2x category, triumphantly winning both their heats and the final. The excitement didn’t stop there, as the Ross Juniors showcased their skills by defeating the Ross Seniors in a thrilling final. Jacob, Connor, Leah, and Lily emerged victorious in the Mixed 4x event, adding to the club’s impressive tally of wins.
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Above: Club Chair Jonathan Preece addressing RRC members.
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On Thursday, September 19th, the Ross Rowing Club’s board of directors convened for its Annual General Meeting (AGM), a key and significant event in the club’s calendar.
During the meeting, Jonathan Preece was re-elected as Club Chair, while Janet Rosser was also re-elected as Society Secretary after a period of absence. A significant transition took place during the AGM with the announcement that Torsten Pope would be stepping down from his role as Facilities Director after an impressive 12 years of dedicated service. Taking over the Facilities Director position is Georgina Gilbert.
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Above: A full house for the club’s Bingo Night event.
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On Friday, 20th September, Ross Rowing Club hosted a lively Bingo Night. In true Ross fashion, not even the gloomy weather could dampen spirits as over 40 members and guests gathered for a night of fun, food, and entertainment, raising an impressive £581.10 in gross sales.
But what’s a club event without some delicious food to match? A special mention goes to Torsten Pope and Deb Smith, who opened the Clubhouse kitchen, serving up a crowd-pleasing menu of chicken and chips with a house salad. A big shout out also goes to the amazing Bar Team. Their combined efforts kept everyone well-fed and watered, adding to the night’s enjoyment.
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Join us this Friday for our monthly Quiz Night, hosted by Club President Jeremy Piction-Turbervill. With fantastic prizes for the winning team, it’s the perfect way to jumpstart your weekend. Doors open at 6:00pm, and the trivia kicks off at 7:00pm sharp. Entry is just £2 per person, with teams of up to six. During the interval, enjoy freshly prepared food from our clubhouse kitchen to keep you fuelled for the challenge ahead. Don’t miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there!
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In addition to the Quiz Night this Friday, our clubhouse kitchen will be serving up a delicious meal of Chilli Con Carne with Rice—all for just £6. If you have any dietary requirements, we’re happy to accommodate your needs and provide alternatives. Please contact Deb Smith (07967015473) ahead of the evening to ensure everything is arranged for you.
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Join us on Friday 18th October for an unforgettable Oktoberfest celebration! Enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience with a fantastic selection of German beers, traditional games, and lively music to keep the party going all night. Entry is free, so come along, bring your friends, and embrace the festive spirit. Doors open at 6:00pm, and our clubhouse kitchen will be serving up delicious Bavarian bites to perfectly complement your brews. Don’t miss this chance to Prost with us and enjoy an evening of great drinks, food, and fun!
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Join us on Friday 1st November for a spook-tacular Halloween Quiz Night, hosted by our very own Harry Green! Come dressed in your creepiest costumes for a chance to win extra prizes, along with great rewards for the top quiz team. Doors creak open at 6:00pm, with the haunting trivia kicking off at 7:00pm. Entry is £2 per person, with teams of up to six ghouls and goblins. During the interval, enjoy devilishly good food from our clubhouse kitchen to keep your spirits high. Don’t miss out on the frightful fun!
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The most anticipated and exhilarating event in the Ross Rowing Club social calendar is nearly here – Cabaret Night! Join us on Friday, 22nd November for an unforgettable evening of comedy, music, and dazzling performances, hosted by none other than international sensation Miss Tina Sparkle.
With whispers of a mystery performance, there’s no telling what surprises the night will bring. Expect the unexpected and prepare for a night full of unforgettable entertainment! Tickets are limited to just 60 guests, so secure yours now for £10 each via WebCollect.
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For Charlie and Annabel Pope, life has always revolved around the water. The children of club members Debbie Smith and Torsten Pope, they spent much of their childhood at Ross Rowing Club, surrounded by boats and oars.
Now, the Pope siblings are trading the familiar waters of Ross for a new adventure: university. With bags packed and ambitions high, they’re stepping into a pivotal moment in their lives—one filled with new friends, academic challenges, and, of course, rowing.
Growing up at Ross Rowing Club meant that Charlie and Annabel practically lived on the river. They began rowing in 2017, quickly rising through the ranks to become formidable competitors. Charlie took his love of the sport a step further by becoming a qualified coach. His time mentoring the Juniors at Ross became a central part of his involvement with the club.
“Coaching has been as rewarding as competing,” Charlie reflects. “I’ve always loved working with the younger rowers—it’s about more than just winning races; it’s about passing on what rowing has given me.”
Annabel, too, carved out her place in the club, bringing a fierce competitive spirit to the boat. But now, the siblings are leaving the Ross Rowing Club behind, for now, as they head to university.
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Above: Siblings Charlie and Annabel together on the River Wye.
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Annabel is now pursuing English Literature at the University of York, whilst Charlie has landed at the University of Bath, where he’s studying Sports and Exercise Science—a natural progression for someone so immersed in athletic performance and coaching.
Moving away from home for the first time is a daunting step for any teenager, but Charlie and Annabel seem to be embracing the change. Freshers’ Week has been a whirlwind of activities, with both siblings settling into halls, making new friends, and getting a taste of campus life. Despite the excitement, rowing remains at the centre of their focus.
Annabel has already signed up for York’s rowing club, eager to make her mark on a new team. “It’s exciting to be part of a different rowing culture,” she says. “I’m looking forward to pushing myself in new ways and seeing how I can contribute to the club.”
Charlie is eyeing Bath’s renowned rowing programme with enthusiasm. “Studying Sports and Exercise Science alongside being in the rowing club feels like the perfect combination,” he shares. “I’ll be able to apply what I’m learning directly to my training and coaching.”
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Left photo: Charlie, with Greg and Georgie, after completing his coaching qualification.
Right photo: A beaming Annabel after emerging victorious.
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As the academic year unfolds, Charlie and Annabel are eager to strike a balance between their studies and their passion for rowing. While university life offers fresh challenges and opportunities, the river will always be a constant for the Pope siblings.
Back home, Ross Rowing Club will be watching their progress closely, cheering them on from afar. And while their presence may be missed on the riverbanks of the Wye, this is only the beginning of a new chapter in their rowing journey.
We’ll be following Charlie and Annabel, and other Ross’s university students, closely over the coming months, documenting their experiences as they navigate university life—both in the lecture hall and on the water. Stay tuned as we continue to share their stories beyond the boathouse.
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On the tranquil waters of the River Wye, a quiet revolution is taking place. In a sport often perceived as elite and exclusive, MARS — the Mixed Ability Rowing Scheme — is turning tradition on its head. Founded in June 2023 by Sally Pettipher, this ground-breaking initiative is breaking down barriers, bringing people of all abilities into the world of rowing, and reshaping the way we think about inclusivity in sport.
Launched at Ross Rowing Club, MARS is one of British Rowing’s newest and most exciting adaptive programmes, already being hailed as a flagship initiative in the UK. From experienced rowers to complete novices, people of all backgrounds are invited to take part — and the impact has been nothing short of transformative.
The story of MARS begins in 2022, when Sally Pettipher, a trustee for Love Rowing, represented the organisation at the first international mixed ability regatta in Ireland. The event was an eye-opener, showing Sally the power of adaptive rowing to change lives. Fired up by what she had experienced, she returned to Ross Rowing Club with a vision: to create a programme where everyone, regardless of ability or experience, could enjoy the camaraderie and exhilaration of rowing.
Securing funding for the project was no easy feat, but Sally’s passion and determination paid off. In June 2023, MARS officially launched at Ross Rowing Club, and since then, it has been creating ripples — quite literally — in the rowing community.
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Left photo: Some MARS STARS members enjoying the River Wye.
Right photo: Rowena, Nicky, Marsaili, Leo and Jack enjoying a tea break.
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At the heart of MARS is a dedicated team of rowers, coaches, and volunteers who make the programme tick. Affectionately dubbed the “MARS STARS,” they are the driving force behind the initiative’s success.
The programme is coordinated by Marsaili Heatley, whose passion for inclusivity is palpable. Supporting her is Sue Thompson, the club’s welfare officer, alongside British Rowing coach Jackie Baynham, a highly respected figure whose family name is synonymous with rowing excellence.
While MARS is making a splash locally, it hasn’t taken long for the programme to gain national recognition. This past summer, key members of the MARS team — Sally, Marsaili, and Leo — proudly represented Ross Rowing Club at the Paralympic Fan Zone in London, an event held at the iconic Battersea Power Station. There, they worked alongside Love Rowing and British Rowing to introduce the public to rowing, coaching curious passers-by on ergometers and sharing the joy of the sport.
Joining them was none other than Rob Cree, Talent Scout for Team GB’s Paralympic Rowing Team, who was on the lookout for future para-athletes. The event, which celebrated the 2024 Paralympic Games, was an opportunity not just to spread awareness of adaptive rowing, but also to inspire the next generation of potential Paralympic rowers.
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Left photo:Leo & Marsaili outside Battersea Power Station in the Paralympic Fan Zone.
Right photo: Sally Pettipher, Leo Heatley & Marsaili Heatley supporting The Big Row.
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Back in Ross-on-Wye, MARS continues to play a pivotal role in the community. In early August, the team hosted an open day at Ross Rowing Club, as part of The Big Row — a nationwide event designed to raise awareness about rowing and encourage participation. The day saw locals gather at the club to try their hand at rowing, enjoy a slice of cake, and learn more about MARS.
The event was a huge success, drawing in new members and raising funds to support the initiative. It also reinforced the idea that rowing isn’t just a sport for the few, but something that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their background or ability.
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Above: Members of Ross Rowing Club and MARS STARS for the club open day.
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As MARS continues to grow, its impact is undeniable. What started as a vision for inclusive rowing has quickly become a movement, inspiring people both locally and nationally to rethink what sport can and should look like. The support from British Rowing and Love Rowing, alongside the tireless dedication of the MARS STARS, means the future looks bright for this game-changing programme.
In the words of Jonathan Preece, Chair of Ross Rowing Club: “It’s amazing to see how far MARS has come in such a short time. This programme is showing the world that rowing truly is for everyone — and we’re just getting started.”
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For anyone familiar with Ross Rowing Club, the name Torsten Pope and his influence is undeniable. Torsten’s story is one of quiet dedication, tireless work behind the scenes, and a lifelong love for the sport that’s embedded in his DNA.
Torsten’s journey into rowing was almost inevitable. Raised in a rowing family, the sport was woven into the fabric of his childhood. His father and uncles had rowed for Monmouth School before going on to represent iconic clubs such as Keble College Oxford, Vesta, Hereford, and Upper Thames. With such a strong family tradition, you would assume Torsten would follow easily in their wake. But as he admits, his start was far from glamorous.
“I tried coxing at Ross in the early ’70s,” he recalls with a laugh, “but there were few crews, and Martin Dean was much smaller and more experienced. I didn’t get a look in.”
Despite the early setback, rowing stayed in his sights. He began his journey as a rower at Kings’ School Gloucester and joined Ross Rowing Club in 1975, where his brothers Folke and Lars, and sister Kerstin, also took up the sport. At that time, Ross was a humble club, with a limited number of boats and a small but passionate membership. The club’s one eight had famously been wrecked against Hereford Bridge years before, so they made do with a few fours and pairs.
Torsten’s first competitive outing came at the Evesham Regatta, and although his crew was knocked out in the first round, the seed was planted. “We lost to Worcester College for the Blind,” he remembers, shrugging. “It wasn’t the start I hoped for, but it’s a good story now.”
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Left photo: Torsten at the Clubhouse opening in 1977.
Right photo: Pete Alker, Rex Lerigo, Roger Parker, Jerry Whitehouse, Marcus Constance, Dave Wood, Wally Watkins, Ian Hale & Torsten Pope.
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It was at university where Torsten’s rowing really took off. Rowing for King’s College London, boating out of Thames Rowing Club in Putney, he experienced the thrill of success. His time with the King’s College 1st Eight saw him win the London University and Southern University Championships, as well as twice competing at the Henley Royal Regatta.
“Henley was an unforgettable experience,” he says, the pride still evident in his voice. “In 1982, we made it to the Friday in the Ladies’ Plate, only to be beaten by Harvard.”
That loss at Henley, though bitter, marked the peak of his rowing career. By the age of 23, with studies behind him, Torsten was ready to embark on a new chapter, and competitive rowing took a back seat to a life that would take him across the globe.
Torsten’s work as a geologist took him far from Ross, with assignments in the North Sea and offshore Angola, while weekends became dedicated to his commitments with the Territorial Army. Yet, despite these demands on his time, his connection to Ross Rowing Club remained strong and unwavering.
Though he could no longer dedicate time to racing, Torsten became an invaluable presence at the club. Whether it was showing up for Boxing Day rows or lending a hand with the club’s social events—often run by his best mates, Andy Marshall and Ronnie Gabb—he remained an integral part of the Ross community.
In the early ‘90s, Torsten led his first major project for the club, working with a TA plant troop to improve access to the club’s grounds. It was a taste of what was to come—his hands-on approach to enhancing the club’s facilities would soon become his legacy.
By 2012, Torsten’s commitment to Ross had evolved. He joined the club committee and became the first-ever Facilities Director, a role that would define the next 12 years of his life. Under his leadership, the club underwent a remarkable transformation.
“My goal was always to improve the club’s ability to host events and our annual regatta,” he says. “We took on a project every year.”
Some of these projects have become cornerstones of the club’s infrastructure: levelling the club lawn, building a mobile BBQ hut, constructing the marquee floor, and adding a side lean-to. His knack for problem-solving and resourcefulness, combined with support from the club and generous sponsors like Nigel and Rosie Shepherd, Walford Timber and AJ Lowther, saw the club thrive.
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Above: The mobile BBQ hut, used at Ross Rowing Cub events.
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Perhaps the most transformative initiative has been the development of the club’s camping facilities. What once began as a simple arrangement of tents has now evolved into a well-organised site featuring hardstanding car parks, fenced camping areas, and adequate ablution facilities. This enhancement, supported by his wife Debbie’s leadership as the camping coordinator, has significantly increased the club’s revenue, turning camping into the clubs largest income source. “It’s been fantastic to see how camping has evolved,” he says.
In 2013, Torsten was approached by the Ross Lions and Rotary Clubs with the idea of hosting a beer festival on the club’s grounds. Torsten took the lead in shaping this collaboration, and by the following year, the first-ever Ross Beer Festival was launched to great success. Over the years, the event has evolved into one of the club’s cornerstone fundraising initiatives, drawing crowds and becoming a much-anticipated tradition in the local community.
However, the most challenging period came in late 2019 when flooding devastated the club. Torsten stepped down as Facilities Director in September, only to find himself back in action a month later, leading the charge on the insurance claim. Disaster struck again in February 2020, with even worse flooding, and Torsten took on the task of overseeing a full-scale rebuild.
“The building was completely reconfigured,” he explains. “We even found the corridor roof was failing during the rebuild, and I had to get that replaced too.”
Over the next two and a half years, the club was rebuilt from the ground up, with modern additions like solar panels and battery storage. Torsten’s leadership during this period ensured Ross Rowing Club emerged from disaster stronger than ever.
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Above: The current Clubhouse in 2024, with the new solar panels installed.
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Even as his role at the club became more focused on infrastructure, Torsten’s passion for rowing never dimmed. In 2017, when his children, Charlie and Annabel, started rowing, he took up coaching, becoming a qualified Level 2 coach. He also continued rowing, his wife Debbie gifting him a coxless pair (even though she had her eye on a camper van!). Today, he regularly rows with Jonathan Preece, the club’s current chair and a friend he’s known since they were 15.
One of Torsten’s proudest moments has been the joy of sharing the rowing experience with his children. “There’s nothing quite like rowing with your own kids,” he says, a smile lighting up his face.
Torsten’s contributions to the rowing world don’t end at Ross. Since 2016, he’s also been a trustee of Temple Island, the iconic starting point for the Henley Royal Regatta. While his role is largely symbolic, it brings with it a unique perk. “Each year during Henley, I get to collect the rent from Sir Steve Redgrave with a glass of champagne in hand,” he says, smiling. “It’s not a bad job.”
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Left photo: Torsten at Temple Island.
Right photo: At Henley Royal Regatta, with Temple Island in the distance.
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As Torsten steps down as Facilities Director, he confidently hands over the reins to his successor, George Gilbert. “I wish George every success in her new role,” he states. “I am immensely grateful to all the club members who have supported me over the last 12 years, especially my wife Debbie, as well as Charlie and Annabel,” he adds, reflecting on the invaluable encouragement he has received throughout his tenure.
Torsten Pope’s story is one of unwavering commitment to the sport of rowing and to Ross Rowing Club. His legacy is evident in the club’s modern facilities and the opportunities he has created for future generations of rowers. Through his dedicated efforts, he has left an indelible mark on the Ross Rowing Club and beyond, ensuring that the club he loves continues to flourish for years to come.
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Ross Rowing Club – Founded 1875
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