WLARC Centenary

A Century of Strength and Sisterhood: From Learn to Row to Olympic Excellence

         From right to left: Co-Captain Josephine, WLARC President                               Memorabilia of WLARC over the last 100 years. 

         Jessica, Deputy Mayor Simon Leifer, Co-Captain Jenny and

         image of founder Amy Gentry.

In 2026, Weybridge Ladies Amateur Rowing Club (WLARC) celebrates 100 years of empowering women and girls through rowing. Founded in 1926 by Amy Gentry OBE, the club has played a pioneering role in women's rowing, creating opportunities for generations of athletes to train, compete, and succeed.

Our centenary celebrations brought together current and former members, neighbouring clubs, and local councillors to recognise this remarkable milestone. Hosted by President Jessica Nolan and Co-Captains Josephine Boorman and Jenny Field, we were honoured to welcome Elmbridge Borough Council's Deputy Mayor, Simon Leifer.

Despite maintaining an average membership of around 40, WLARC has achieved extraordinary success, producing 11 Olympians who represented Great Britain between 1976 and 1988. Most notably, at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, every member of the GB Women's Coxed Four crew was a Weybridge Ladies rower, a remarkable achievement that reflects the club's lasting legacy.

Our history inspires our future. This season has seen continued membership growth, strong racing performances, and another appearance at the Women's Eights Head of the River Race, an event founded and first won by WLARC in 1927. Our thriving Learn to Row programme continues to introduce new women to the sport while welcoming former rowers back to the water.

A highlight (so far) of our centenary year was our Ergothon fundraiser, where members rowed over 600 kilometres in 12 hours, raising more than £10,000 with matched funding from Sport England. These funds will help improve our equipment and training opportunities for current and future members.

Our success has always been built on a strong community of members, volunteers, supporters, and local partners. We also extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported our Centenary Afternoon Tea and raffle, helping make the celebration a memorable occasion. In particular we would like to make a special mention for those who went above and beyond to support our centenary party:

• Oatland Park Hotel
  
• Doyly Carte
  
• The Minnow
  
• The Flintgate
  
• The Old Crown
  
• No 3 Pizza
  
• La Casa
  
• HandyHomes Builders
  
• Queen of Seed
  
• Sam Beare Charity Shop
  
• Dartmouth Ice Cream company
  
• The Boatman, Walton

As we celebrate our first 100 years, we look forward to the next century of inspiring women and girls through rowing by continuing to invest in equipment, coaching, and opportunities for future generations.