The Bishops Rowing club celebrated their 50th Reunion this past weekend which brought together more than 40 Old Diocesans to commemorate five decades of rowing at Bishops and, equally importantly, the friendships, memories and sense of community that have developed around the sport over the years.

A particular highlight was welcoming Simon Grose and Jonathan Dunn, both 1977 Founders and members of the original 1976 rowing cohort. Their stories and recollections provided a valuable connection to the pioneering days of Bishops Rowing and the beginnings of a tradition that continues to this day.

The reunion was further distinguished by several special contributions. Jonathan presented a commemorative rowing blade mounted on a plaque from his Swiss rowing club, providing a lasting memento of the occasion. The club also received a set of engraved Alfred's beer mugs, the trophies awarded to Bishops' first rowing crew in 1976. Remarkably, Simon and Jonathan have each retained their mugs for the past 50 years.

Jeremy Wilkinson (2015K), who represented Cambridge University in the Lightweight Boat Race, and Chris Hale, TIC Rowing, also attended to mark this significant milestone.

Although the planned rowing on the Vlei the following day had to be cancelled for safety reasons due to high winds, the spirit of the reunion continued. A group of Old Diocesans gathered at Michael's for lunch, sharing further stories, laughter and memories from five decades of rowing.

The weekend served as a fitting reminder that Bishops Rowing is about more than boats and races. It is about the people, friendships and sense of community that connect Old Diocesans across generations.

Fifty years on, the tradition remains strong, with the next objective being to strengthen the network and community for the next 50 years.