About Colombo Rowing Club
Since 1864.
Founded on July 15, 1864, by Sir Edward Creasy, former Chief Justice of Ceylon, the Colombo Rowing Club (CRC) is the oldest rowing club in Sri Lanka and a symbol of the island’s rich rowing heritage.
Originally composed of colonialists affiliated with government departments and plantations, the club adopted the colors of Oxford—Oxford Blue and White.
The CRC has played a pivotal role in fostering competitive rowing both locally and internationally. In 1898, the club held the first Boat Race against the Madras Boat Club, now known as the Madras-Colombo Regatta. This event remains the oldest regatta between two countries and is second in vintage only to the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race.
With Ceylon’s independence, the club opened its doors to local rowers, selecting Alavi Mohomed as its first Ceylonese captain. During the 1950s and 1960s, CRC was instrumental in introducing rowing to schools and universities such as Royal College, S. Thomas’ College, and the University of Colombo. The club has proudly hosted the annual Royal Thomian Regatta since 1962.
In 2012, CRC was honored by visits from Olympic Gold Medalist Mahé Drysdale and former Oxford Boat Race captain Donald MacDonald, whose historic Ox-Bridge Boat Race mutiny inspired the 1996 film True Blue.
Located at Sir Chittapalam A. Gardiner Mawatha, the clubhouse features unique elements, including a staircase salvaged from a British-era ship and lighting fixtures made from old rowing shells from the 1950s. CRC continues to be a hub for both competitive rowing and social gatherings, nurturing a deep tradition of rowing in Sri Lanka and hosting national championships as well as international events.
Today, the Colombo Rowing Club stands as the cradle of rowing in Sri Lanka, with a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of rowers.
Rich Heritage and Legacy
Established in 1864, the CRC stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most historic sports institutions, proudly carrying forward over a century and a half of tradition. As a pioneer in the development of Rowing in South Asia, the CRC has cultivated a legacy of excellence and passion for the sport. More than just a club, it has become a revered symbol of Camaraderie, Competition, and Community. Today, the CRC remains dedicated to nurturing the sport of rowing, inspiring new generations of Rowers, and fostering a lifelong appreciation for both the sport and the shared traditions that have shaped its course.
Community and Social Engagement
The Colombo Rowing Club offers an exclusive yet welcoming community where camaraderie and shared passions flourish. More than just a sporting institution, the CRC is a hub of social connection, hosting a lively calendar of events throughout the year for both members and their guests. From cherished annual traditions to informal gatherings, the club creates an environment that fosters lasting friendships and a profound sense of belonging among its members.
Competitive Regattas
With a vibrant Rowing calendar, the Colombo Rowing Club hosts an array of prestigious Regattas each year, including the historic Madras-Colombo Regatta—the world’s longest-running International Rowing Competition. Alongside this iconic event, CRC organizes several Annual Regattas in partnership with clubs across the region, offering thrilling competitions that draw dedicated teams and avid spectators alike. The CRC's Regattas are widely anticipated and well-supported by the club's teams, as well as School and University crews from across Sri Lanka. Many of our oarsmen and oarswomen have honed their skills here, going on to represent Sri Lanka at national and international levels, furthering the club's legacy as a cornerstone of Sri Lankan Rowing excellence.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
At the Colombo Rowing Club, members enjoy exceptional facilities crafted to elevate their Rowing and Social experiences. The club boasts a fleet of high-quality boats, a brand-new, fully equipped gym, and scenic Rowing course along the Beira Lake, offering an inspiring environment for Rowing. Beyond the water, members can relax and connect in the club’s elegant dining area and social spaces, making the CRC a well-rounded hub for athletic and social engagement alike.
Our Spaces
Visit Us
What We Offer
- Expert Coaching: At the Colombo Rowing Club, members benefit from personalized coaching programs that cater to all skill levels, guided by experienced trainers dedicated to refining rowing techniques and building competitive strength.
- Community Events: Our club hosts an engaging array of social and competitive events, including prestigious regattas, creating a lively atmosphere that connects rowing enthusiasts and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie.
- Premium Amenities: Members have exclusive access to our state-of-the-art facilities, including a fleet of meticulously maintained boats, a new fully-equipped gym, elegant dining spaces, and a games room designed for relaxation and socializing.
Executive Committee
Meet our Committee
Meet the dedicated leaders who steer the Colombo Rowing Club, fostering a spirit of teamwork, tradition, and growth in our rowing community.
Nalin Samarawickrema
President
Talal Shums
Vice President
Anuradha Nadaraja
Captain
Kemil Peter
Vice Captain
Maalik Aziz
Honorary Secretary
CHARITHRA HETTIARACHCHI
Honorary Assistant Secretary
ROSHAN DE SILVA
Honorary Treasurer
DATHIKA WICKRAMANAYAKE
Honorary Assitant Treasurer
DINESH DEHERAGODA
Committee Member
