The earliest surviving record of the boat club's existence are accounts for 1837, although evidence suggests it was founded during the early 1830s.[1] Wadham competed in the first Grand Challenge Cup in 1839, losing to Trinity College, Cambridge.[2] In 1849, Wadham competed against Trinity and Oriel College, Oxford in the Ladies' Challenge Plate and the Grand Challenge Cup. Wadham won both races with Trinity coming in second.[1] It is said this victory led to Wadham's right to use Cambridge's blue-green for first VIII colours instead of its traditional light blue,[2] although this is debated.[1]
Wadham began boating from a hired barge near the mouth of the Cherwell in 1886,[1] and permanently purchased a barge in 1897. It was sold in 1973,[3][4] and the current boathouse was built in 1989.
Women were first admitted to the college in 1974, and the first women's crew was formed in 1975. After successful performances within Oxford and externally that year, the crew proceeded to win Head of the River in the first ever women's Summer VIIIs in 1976. [4] The current women's third VIII is named the Spirit of '76 in honour of this event.[5]
Recent form
Training at Godstow
In recent years, Wadham has remained successful both within Oxford rowing and externally.
The women's first VIII last gained Torpids headship in 2019 and last won blades in Torpids in 2022. They also held headship in Summer VIIIs from 2014 to 2018. They currently sit 8th on the river for Torpids and 2nd for Summer VIIIs.[6] They also frequently compete in external regattas such as Henley Women's Regatta, which was most recently entered in 2024.[7]
The open (formerly men's) first VIII also remain in Division 1 for both Torpids and Summer VIIIs, currently in 11th position for both. The open second VIII won blades in Torpids 2023 and are currently the highest second VIII on the river.[6] The open side last competed externally at the Head of the River Race in 2024.[8]
Club life
Membership
Membership of the boat club is open to all students and staff at both Wadham College and Harris Manchester College.
Additionally, both current boat club members and alumni make up the Wadham College Boat Club Society (WCBCS). The Society provides support to the boat club including advice, fundraising and donations. It also runs an annual regatta and President's Dinner, as well as an annual newsletter.[9]
Social events
Beyond the aforementioned President's Dinner, members of the boat club enjoy a variety of social events. Both Torpids and Summer VIIIs are typically appended with formal dinners. Frequent informal social events occur throughout the year including "Captains' Cocktails", "Presidents' Prosecco" and crewdates with other colleges.[10]
.svg)
