Sir Steve joins rowing stars at Molesey fundraiser

Sir Steve Redgrave and a host of British Olympic rowers including Greg and Jonny Searle, Tom James, Cameron Nichol, James Foad and BBC commentator Martin Cross, attended a charity lunch and auction at Sandown Racecourse on Thursday 12th September, to raise funds for the new community rowing centre at Molesey Boat Club.

The new centre is due to start construction next year, replacing the one that was demolished when the Walton leisure centre was developed in 2004. It will comprise a gym and rowing tank, allowing children (including those with special needs) to learn to row in safe, dry conditions. The facility will also be available to adults and clubs.

Before the lunch Sir Steve chatted to some Molesey Juniors. “It was so kind of Sir Steve to spend so much time chatting with us before the lunch”, said Jack O’Connor, David Scrivener and Emily Croghan (pictured, right). “He was so interested in what we were up to and gave us a lot of inspiration.”

The Lunch was arranged by Molesey Rowing Ltd, a new charity set up to help promote the sport of rowing.

“This rowing tank will be available for the whole community to use”, said Bill Raspin, head of fundraising. “We have had tremendous support from local schools and club, including Walton Leigh School, which caters to children with special needs.”

For further information about the centre or fundraising, please contact Bill Raspin: [email protected] or 0788 0602 305.

Would you like to see your club’s news on the British Rowing website? Contact [email protected].