News Olympian Inspires Rowers at Boat Club Dinner 05.03.2026

Last Friday evening, the annual Rowing Dinner was held in the Bishop’s Centre, bringing together students, staff and supporters to celebrate another year of dedication and achievement on the water. The evening featured a number of inspiring speeches, with the highlight being a keynote address from Holly Dunford, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Holly spoke candidly about her journey in rowing, sharing how she had fallen out of love with the sport at the end of 2023 before unexpectedly rediscovering her motivation in Spring 2024. Her renewed determination ultimately led to her selection for the Olympic Games, an experience she described as both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Her story of perseverance and resilience proved particularly motivating for the students, and the inspiration was quickly put into action the very next day when Godolphin crews took to the water at the Hammersmith Head of the River. Three crews competed, delivering strong performances across the event. The 1st VIII+ finished an impressive 9th, the 2nd VIII+ secured an outstanding 3rd place, and the J16 VIII+ battled well to finish 11th.

Congratulations to all the rowers involved on a fantastic weekend of celebration, inspiration and competition.