
Summary
Description
Founded in 1917, UCD Boat Club is one of Ireland’s most successful rowing clubs, combining over a century of tradition with a constant drive for excellence. Based at Islandbridge on the River Liffey, the club offers students the opportunity to row at the highest level while developing teamwork, resilience, and leadership.
UCD Boat Club has achieved consistent success at a national level, dominating the Irish Rowing Championships and producing crews that regularly compete at Henley Royal Regatta and international regattas. Our strength in domestic competition has made us a key player in the development of Irish rowing talent.
The club has been home to some of Ireland’s greatest athletes. Current member Daire Lynch is an Olympic bronze medallist and World Champion, training and competing while representing UCD. Alumni include Paul O’Donovan, Olympic gold medallist in Paris 2024, Tokyo 2021 and silver medallist in Rio 2016, widely regarded as Ireland’s greatest rower. UCD has also produced Eimear Lambe, who won Olympic bronze in Tokyo 2021. These achievements reflect the club’s ability to nurture athletes from novice level to the world stage.
Beyond competitive results, UCD Boat Club is proud of its community and culture. Every year, hundreds of students balance study and rowing while gaining skills that last a lifetime. The club also benefits from a strong alumni network that supports the next generation.
Our reach extends online, with a vibrant social media presence. On Instagram alone, our posts average 15,000 views, with four highlights this year surpassing 24,000 views—providing sponsors with meaningful visibility across student, alumni, and sporting audiences.