(L to R) Nick Beasant, Simon Tyson and Nicholas Bull on site as the current Boathouse is demolished.
Photo credit – Tim Pestridge photography
Work starts on new Home for Boat Club
Work has begun on the construction of the University’s new Boathouse at Countess Wear. The former Boathouse was demolished earlier this week and the site, on the banks of the canal, will soon be home to a brand new, purpose-built rowing boathouse from where the University’s Boat Club will train. The construction of the new Boathouse has been made possible by the support of Alumnus Nicholas Bull (Chemistry, 1973).
The Boathouse redevelopment follows an incredibly successful season for the Boat Club, in which they have accrued 94 points in BUCS (British Universities and College Sport) competition. In the first year under the supervision of Head Coach Richard Tinkler, the Club has progressed greatly and developed both on and off the water. Work on the Boathouse started as the Men’s and Women’s squads prepare for one of their toughest tests of the year, the Henley Royal Regatta.
Boat Club Captain David Rogal is understandably excited about the start of the construction. “The previous facility was of a quality that did not match our ambition as a club. The new Boathouse will be a fantastic boost for all club members, from our elite rowers through to our novice members who we take out on the water for the very first time. We would like to thank Nicholas Bull for his ongoing support, as well as our other alumni supporters who help to ensure that we are able to continue to train at the very highest levels.”
The University of Exeter as a whole currently sits in 7th position in the annual BUCS table. With only a handful of competitions still to take place, Athletic Union President Beth Hampson is hopeful of Exeter securing it’s highest ever ranking in BUCS competition. “Our position in the table is testament to the hard work and dedication of not just our student athletes but also the coaches and support staff that continue to get the best out of our teams and individuals” Beth commented.
It is an exciting time for sport at the University, with work also starting recently on the redevelopment of the sports facilities on Streatham Campus. The £8.1m project will see the University’s sports facilities improve greatly with the addition of a new 200-station gym, new exercise studios and resurfaced pitches. With one of the very highest sporting participation rates of any UK University, Exeter boasts an extremely active student population.
The Boathouse project is due for completion in October, with a formal opening taking place on Saturday 13th. For more information about the boathouse opening or the Boat Club in general, please contact the University of Exeter Athletic Union.
Date: 21 June 2012
