Swapping Oars for Trainers: Captain and Vice-Captain to Run London Marathon for Roof Appeal

On Sunday, 26 April 2026, two of PBDRC’s finest are trading the river for the road. Club Captain Ben and Vice-Captain Nathan will be taking on the grueling 26.2 miles of the London Marathon, all in aid of securing the future of the clubhouse.

While the club is currently fundraising for various necessities, including new boats and equipment, the most urgent priority remains the clubhouse roof. The repair project requires £150,000 over the next two years to ensure the building remains safe and watertight.

A Lifelong Connection For both Ben and Nathan, this challenge is personal. Having rowed at Poplar since they were children, they have grown up with the club as a central part of their lives. Now, they are looking to give back to the institution that has supported them for so long.

“Poplar is unlike any other rowing club—incredible history, part of the East London community, competitive, and sociable,” the pair stated. “We want future generations to have the same sports and rowing opportunities we’ve had.”

The Goal Ben and Nathan have set a fundraising target of £4,000. Achieving this would be a significant milestone toward the larger capital project and vital for preserving the club’s legacy.

Please join the rest of the PBDRC community in supporting our Captains as they tackle this challenge!