A Hammersmith rowing club that can trace its origins to the later part of the 19th Century has become the latest to benefit from the gift of a defibrillator from the charity RALPHH.
Auriol Kensington is based between two busy pubs and within easy reach of Hammersmith Bridge. It has existed in its current form since 1981, when the two clubs of Auriol and Kensington amalgamated. It is also linked with nearby Furnival Sculling Club, whose members will also have access to the potentially life-saving equipment.
The request for the help from the national charity RALPHH (Robert Allen Life Promotion and Healthy Hearts Trust) came from the Club’s committee, who represent 225 members. The charity was pleased to assist with Chairman Richard Allen making the presentation on the slipway opposite the impressive clubhouse.
Auriol Kensington has achieved recent success in the coxed fours event at the 2024 National Championship, as well as at Henley in the Masters event. Members either live or work in London and new members include those participating in a learn to row programme. All sizes of boats are in use.
Pictured left to right, with a well-known stretch of the Thames in the background are: Club Treasurer Nadia Fontaine; Secretary Alison Roberts; Julie Watson, who as well as being President of the Club was also its first female member in 1987; and Richard Allen.
RALPHH is keen to hear from more rowing clubs who are currently lacking defibrillation equipment. The charity can often make free gifts to sporting clubs, who now total 36 since the establishment of the charity in 2019. Early access to defibrillators is now seen as a necessary part of safeguarding club members who are undertaking strenuous sport.
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