The Balliol and New College Boathouse, also known as Balliol College Boat Club (BCBC), is a prestigious rowing club located in Oxford, England. As one of the college boat clubs at the esteemed University of Oxford, BCBC competes in various rowing regattas organised by Oxford University Rowing Clubs, including Torpids and Summer Eights. The club also participates in external regattas such as Marlow Regatta and Henley Royal Regatta.
BCBC has a rich history in the sport of rowing, with records dating back to 1823. The Balliol College Archives and the College Buttery house an extensive collection of sports photographs and trophies, including many related to the Boat Club. It is debated whether an official boat club existed until the 1850s, but the establishment of a grand barge as the club's base on the River Thames at the south side of Christ Church Meadow in 1859 solidified the presence of BCBC. The present boathouse, which is semi-detached and shared with New College, was opened in May 1959.
Throughout its history, BCBC has achieved remarkable accomplishments, including winning the Ladies' Challenge Plate, the Visitors' Challenge Cup, the Silver Goblets, and the Diamond Challenge Sculls at Henley Royal Regatta. In 1975, Balliol won the lightweight men's quad sculls at the British Rowing Championships. The club has produced a number of notable alumni, such as Lord Justice Chitty, Edmond Warre, Frederick Septimus Kelly, Cardinal Heard, Dan Snow, HM King Olav V of Norway, and HM King Harald V of Norway.
The current committee for the 2022/2023 season consists of dedicated Balliolites who are passionate about rowing. The committee includes positions such as President, Captain of Coxes, BCWBC Captain, BCWBC Lower Boats Captain, BCMBC Captain, BCMBC Lower Boats Captain, Treasurer, Secretary, Social Secretaries, Welfare Officer, and Ambassador for Foreign Affairs.
BCBC welcomes individuals who are interested in rowing and encourages them to get in touch with the club. They can find more information about the club's current form and recent success on the “News” tab of their website.
In summary, the Balliol and New College Boathouse, known as Balliol College Boat Club, is a renowned rowing club based in Oxford. With a rich history, impressive achievements, and notable alumni, BCBC continues to thrive as a leading rowing club within the University of Oxford and the wider rowing community.