History

Rowing has existed as a means of moving a boat for millenia, propelling goods, citizens, rulers and warriors around the world.  The first recorded regatta was in Venice in 1274.  Professional watermen started competing in wagered races in London during the 16th century and Doggett’s Coat and Badge Race between watermen apprentices was first held in 1714 and is the oldest annually held rowing race in the world.

Modern rowing developed in the 18th and 19th centuries - clubs were formed, primarily in universities and schools, and rowing spread across the UK.  Rowing in Scotland has a long history, with racing being recorded as early as 1833 and in Victorian times wagered races were held on the River Dee, drawing big crowds.  In 1865 Aberdeen Boat Club was founded.

In 1900, rowing became an Olympic sport and still is - one of Great Britain’s most successful sports with 78 medals since that first event. 

It took a few more decades for junior rowing to take its own, dedicated, place on the River Dee - 1958-1960 saw the formation of the Aberdeen Academy Rowing Club and then in 1973, Aberdeen Schools Rowing Association (ASRA) was created, amalgamating the small number of individual school clubs into one.  

ASRA is open to any junior rowers throughout the Aberdeen area, an approach that sustains a larger squad to represent Aberdeen in regattas throughout the UK and makes the sport more accessible to those wishing to try it for the first time.