1860 Club history evening

Jack Beresford is, by some distance, the most famous member of Thames Rowing Club in our 166 year history. In the years between the two World Wars, he had an extraordinary array of wins in eights, coxless fours, pairs, doubles and, most especially, in his single. At a time when international sporting competition was just beginning to become common, Jack took on the best in the world and won. His Olympic career spanned five Games and, before Steve Redgrave, he was the most successful Olympian - not just in rowing but in any sport - with three gold and two silver medals.

Jack, like his father Julius, his brother Eric and his nephew Mike, was a Thames man. He served as captain from 1927-29 and was club president from 1971-77.

In this, the 90th anniversary of Jack’s last Olympic gold, we are very pleased to announce that his son John will be joining us at the clubhouse to celebrate his many achievements. 

Club archivist James Elder will set the scene with a short presentation on Thames RC, Henley and the Olympics in the 1920s and 30s, before women’s squad coach and sports journalist Jo Harris will chat with John about Jack’s life and successes. This will be followed by a Q&A.

John will be bringing along his collection of Jack’s medals and trophies, and the evening will also bring a chance to see recently-digitised photos from his extensive photo albums.