WLARC started in 1926

Amy Gentry founded Weybridge Ladies Amateur Rowing Club in 1926 and was a pioneering figure in women’s rowing in Britain. She began rowing at Weybridge Rowing Club, where she established a ladies’ section in 1920, and went on to compete successfully in a range of events, including mixed doubles with her brother Frank, winning three consecutive championships from 1924 to 1926.

She became the undefeated British women’s single sculls champion from 1932 to 1934 and played a key role in developing and administering the sport, including leadership roles within the Women’s Amateur Rowing Association. During her career, she also helped promote international competition and the growth of women’s rowing at the highest level.

Alongside her rowing career, she worked during World War II as secretary to engineer Barnes Wallis, assisting with his development of the bouncing bomb. She was awarded an OBE for services to rowing in 1969 and remained a central figure in the sport until her death in 1976.