LORC 10 Year Anniversary Party

London Otters Rowing Club was founded in 2014 with just a handful of people as a way to help LGBTQ+ people get into the sport and enjoy it in a welcoming and inclusive environment. On Saturday 18 May we marked our 10 Year Anniversary with a celebration on Saturday 18 May at the Old Joinery in Greenwich, which included naming a boat after the club’s long-standing senior coach and a video looking back on the history and growth of the club.

The club has run outreach for LGBTQ+ youth in conjunction with London Youth Rowing and METRO, and worked with the trans charity Not a Phase to provide rowing experience days for their members. The club holds an annual race day, ‘Rainbow Races’, to raise money for LGBTQ+ charities including the Albert Kennedy Trust.

Grant Ralph, one of the founders of the London Otters, said “We set up the club to try and break down barriers we experienced ourselves. We wanted to offer access to rowing to everybody, no matter who you are.

“We’ve just completed our 34th Learn to Row course, so that is over 512 individuals we have been able to teach how to row, many of whom are still members with us today, forming a special Otters community”.

Ushna, who joined the club through the ‘Otterpups’ Learn to Row course in 2023 and is now a squad captain, said “Sports play an invaluable role in bringing people together. People should be able to get involved regardless of their background, religion, gender identity, or ability because being a part of a strong community is what helps us thrive.

“The Otters, in true form, are heartwarming individuals that welcome people to the club with open arms and make sure they feel included. I’m lucky to be a part of the growing family and involved in the commitment to inclusivity and advocacy.”

Simon Goody, CEO of the Royal Albert Dock Trust, said “I remember when the London Otters started out here, they were borrowing boats and had a lot of support from London Youth Rowing. It’s been really special to see the Otters grow and develop with us.

“There was some head-scratching from the rowing community in East London at the beginning about who the London Otters were and what they wanted to achieve, but that’s been answered now. They are very much integrated in the rowing scene, with some of their crews beating other more established clubs”.