About

The Blackmore Club

Connecting current and former Saints rowers and supporters

Rowing has always been more than just a sport at St Peter’s College, it’s a tradition that binds generations of Saints men together. The Blackmore Club exists to honour that tradition and strengthen the connection between current rowers, Old Scholars, and supporters of the Saints rowing community.

Named in recognition of Mr E.G. Blackmore, long-time coach, and former President of the South Australian Rowing Association. Blackmore’s contribution to South Australian rowing is legendary, in 1893 he donated the Blackmore Shield, a trophy that sparked the fierce rivalry between St Peter’s College and Prince Alfred College crews. Over a century later, that race still stands as one of the most iconic battles on the river.

Founded in 1989, the Blackmore Club was created with a clear purpose: to foster, support, and promote rowing at Saints while keeping past and present rowers connected. For former oarsmen, it’s a way to remain part of the crew long after the final stroke has been rowed. For parents, families, and supporters, it’s an opportunity to contribute to a tradition that has shaped countless young men.

The Club isn’t just about history, it’s about mateship and community. From the annual Blackmore Club Sundowners at the Boat Shed, our events are designed to bring people together in a relaxed, social setting. During the rowing season, members roll up their sleeves to put on post-training barbeques for the boys, building camaraderie across squads and keeping the Saints spirit alive.

One of the Club’s proudest traditions is the presentation of the engraved Blackmore Club Medal. Each year, after the Head of the River, this medal is awarded to all Saints crews who claim victory. For the athletes, it is more than just a piece of silverware, it is a symbol of belonging that stretches back generations.

Membership of the Blackmore Club is open to all former St Peter College rowers. Whether you pulled on the blue and white oars in the 1960s or raced for Saints last season, you’ll find a place here.

At its heart, the Blackmore Club is about connection between past and present, teammates and rivals, young rowers finding their way and Old Scholars reflecting on battles won and lost. Once a oarsmen, always an oarsmen and always part of the crew.