Vesta 150 Club

History

Founded in 1971 as the Vesta 50 Club, some of the original members are still subscribing today. That group, limited initially to 50, hence the name, established the club to raise money to buy boats for Vesta and to stage an annual social event free to its members. Back then it was possible to donate the entire cost of a boat to the club and ambitious social events included a day trip to France, dinner dances, and trips to the races. Harry Prior was among the early members and ran the club, organising events, until the early 2000s.

The 21st Century

The name changed quite recently to honour the Club's 150th anniversary in 2020 and the membership has expanded beyond 50. Dick Welch took over running the club in 2014, aided by Annette, who is now its president. Funding an entire 4 or 8  for the Club soon became beyond its budget but recent donations have bought additional sculling shells, oars, trophies, gym equipment and in 2024 it donated a substantial amount to allow the purchase of a Filippi 4+ to be brought forward. Free social events are now staged every 2 years;  lunch at a vineyard, racing at  Kempton Park and boat trips among the most recent.

Who can join?

All members of Vesta Rowing Club can join the new Vesta 50 Club. Originally it was restricted to 50 members (hence the name), but that was changed and now it is unlimited. Currently there are 71 members, who are always happy to welcome new faces.

How does it work?

The annual subscription is £120 per annum. We ask new members to pay the first year's subscription "up front" and to undertake to remain a member for at least 2 years; from year 2, the subs can be paid monthly (£10) or quarterly (£30). In addition to a free social event every 2 years, after 3 months members are included in a monthly draw, when one member can win back their annual subscription amount.

Monthly prize: There are twelve monthly draws and the winners get the amount of their 50 Club annual subscription as a prize.

Annual FREE social event: In addition there is an outing every 2 years which is free to members; partners are welcome and they pay a greatly reduced rate. We have arranged a Sunday racing day at Kempton Park, a visit to a vineyard, and river trips, all with a convivial lunch and the opportunity to socialise with a cross section of Vesta members.

We buy boats! The remaining funds are kept until there is enough to purchase (or assist in the purchase) of a new boat or equipment.

Next Social Event

We have arranged a convivial lunch, with entertainment, at historic Linden House, at Upper Mall Hammersmith on Sunday 18th October. If you join the Vesta 150 Club before 18th September 2026 you will be eligible to attend, and subject to overall numbers, may be able to bring one guest at the subsidised rate of £50. We very much hope that this will provide an enjoyable opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow Vesta members from many eras.

Sounds good! How do I sign up?

Contact Paul Baldwin (vrc150clubtreasurer@gmail.com) the Vesta 150 Club Treasurer who can give you the details to set up a standing order.