About this club
Lee Rowing Club is based on The Marina in Cork City, beside the River Lee. Founded in 1850, the club describes itself as Ireland's oldest commercial rowing club.
Its history records that Cork businessmen founded the club to provide outdoor exercise for apprentices working in Patrick Street businesses. Early members included tailors and shop assistants, who became known locally as the Collars and Cuffs and Counter Jumpers.
The first boatshed at 3 Victoria Road was destroyed by fire in 1870. Cork Town Council granted the club another riverside site in 1871, and Lee moved permanently to its present Marina site between 1884 and 1886. Charles Stewart Parnell contributed towards the club's debts in 1890 and was made an honorary member.
After Cork's 1902 Great Exhibition, Lee acquired one of the exhibition halls for its Marina site. The building housed boats, changing rooms, a reading room and a bar; the club adopted red and black at that time. The present boathouse dates from 1988.
Lee caters for juniors, seniors and masters. Prospective members can complete a three-to-four-week trial, and the club provides equipment for beginners. Its current recruitment programme gives 13 and 14-year-olds coached water, indoor rowing, safety and land-training sessions.
The club competes at regional and national level and hosts Lee Regatta. Its 2025 programme included a masters-only event, while Cork Head of the River records show Lee crews across junior, club and masters boat classes.
Upcoming competitions hosted by Lee Rowing Club
No upcoming fixtures listed yet. Dates may still be confirming - check back soon.
