Welcome to Churchill College Boat Club
Churchill College Boat Club was founded in 1961 under the guidance of Canon Noel Duckworth and rowing remains at the heart of college. The club is friendly and sociable, and the biggest student society at Churchill. We are competitive – currently the women’s first boat is 5th in May Bumps, and the open first boat is 16th – and welcome rowers of all abilities from total beginners to those who rowed at school.
W1 and O1 in the 2026 May Bumps
Trying rowing is one of those things that everybody should do at least once during their time at Cambridge, in the same way that you should probably visit King’s College Chapel and have a go at punting. It’s just one of those quintessential Cambridge things. CCBC runs one of the most successful learn-to-row programs in Cambridge and is truly inclusive, with no cost to join and members from the JCR, MCR and even the odd staff member and Fellow.
The club is also very competitive, and offers a pathway for those who are interested in progressing to trial for Cambridge University Boat Club. In recent years, Churchill students who learnt to row here have represented Cambridge at both lightweight and openweight levels on the men’s and women’s side.
If that hasn’t convinced you to give rowing a try, last year all of our members reported rowing had a positive effect on their mental health. With regular access to beautiful Cambridge scenery, a large support network of fellow rowers and a strong social scene, it’s hardly surprising. What’s more, Churchill’s colours are a famous pink, and our boats and blades definitely look the best on the Cam. Look out for the CCBC barbecue during Fresher’s Week and our Try Rowing Days in early October!
If you’re a CCBC alumnus; supporter of one of our athletes; or just curious as to what the boat club has been up to; check out our “CCBC Stories” section for our latest race reports and newsletters.