Founded in 1828, CCCBC ranks among the oldest Cambridge College boat clubs. Today, it remains the largest College sports club. As its bicentenary approaches, we are planning to remember its storied past and invest for a bright future.

The buildup to CCCBC’s 200th anniversary will involve joyful celebrations of the achievements and contributions of former members. This special milestone also provides an opportunity to consider the future of rowing at Corpus. Our ambition is that the next generation of CCCBC members must have every opportunity to enjoy their experiences, compete and succeed.

Early work on anniversary celebrations and opportunities for investment is already in progress. Current students, College officers and alumni are involved. A committee is being formed to lead efforts, to be chaired by Christopher Bouckley (m.1975). Christopher, a successful investment manager and entrepreneur, is a former CCCBC captain and supporter of numerous College initiatives.

Supporting the future of CCCBC

Ensuring that future generations of Corpus rowers can make the most of their talent and dedication will require additional funding. CCCBC believes that any student interested in participating should be able to afford to do so. Investment in facilities is also needed. In particular, the College’s use of the boathouse requires special attention.

Corpus has occupied the boathouse, with Sidney Sussex Boat Club, since the late 1950s. More recently, Girton and Wolfson boat clubs have come to occupy the space, too. The sharing of facilities has kept costs low for each college. There are, however, critical limitations that must be addressed, for the benefit of CCCBC rowers.

Space within the boathouse is extremely limited. Consequently, there is no room for the adequate provision of training equipment. Congestion results in substantial delays in getting boats on and off the water. This time could be better spent by our students, be it training or studying.

We are beginning to explore potential solutions. Many former rowers hold cherished memories of their time with CCCBC. Future generations deserve the same opportunities. Providing improved facilities and greater resources for our rowers will form the basis of a 200th anniversary appeal.

We look forward to updating CCCBC members past and present over the coming months. If you would like to be involved in any way, please contact Mrs Rachel Lawson, Director of Development, on +44 (0)1223 335492 or development.director@corpus.cam.ac.uk.