Exeter College rowers prepare for Torpids 2026

Exeter College Boat Club (ECBC) is gearing up for Torpids 2026, taking place from 4–7 March (7th Week of Hilary Term), following a strong winter season and a successful January training camp. The Club is aiming high after last year’s successes, which included three sets of blades across Torpids and Summer Eights. 

Exeter’s men’s squad currently tops the Isis Winter League (IWL) standings, thanks in part to strong teamwork between the first and second eights. Meanwhile, W1 delivered a standout performance with a second-place finish in IWL B, positioning the women’s squad fourth overall and within reach of the top of the table. 

Both M1 and W1 have a realistic shot at returning to the first division for the first time since 2010 and 2011, respectively. W1’s rise has been remarkable, climbing from 33rd to 16th in just three campaigns. M1, meanwhile, are keen to redeem themselves after a concession mix-up cost them a chance of blades last year. 

Preparation for the term’s racing included a productive training camp in Reading, where the squad made the most of both water and land sessions, despite some heavy fog. The club is grateful to Reading Rowing Club and coach Mike Benson (Barn Elms and Vesta Rowing Clubs) for their support. 

Exeter’s strength on the river is highlighted by continued representation at University level. Ava Milne, a medical student, joins the Oxford University Women’s Lightweight Rowing Club, having learned to row under Exeter’s former head coach Rachel Cannon. Liz Freeman, another home-grown talent, trained with OUBC until the Christmas break before stepping back to focus on finals. 

With lower boats also performing well in IWL and eager to make their mark after years of racing disrupted by river levels and weather conditions, Torpids 2026 promises to be an exciting chapter for ECBC. 

Follow ECBC race results and updates via the ECBCs website.