Charles Rew

Charles Rew ran away from school at the age of 16 to serve with the Royal Artillery during World War I, and went to see action in France. On his enlistment papers, he said he was 19, and an accountant by profession! Rew did not need to lie about his age to serve in World War II, which he did with the Navy.

In between the two Wars Rew was a fine oarsman and won four Henley medals, including winning the Grand Challenge Cup with the Thames Rowing Club in 1923. Coached by the great Steve Fairbairn, Rew also went into coaching, and took with him the skills taught by Fairbairn. His strict disciplinary method would be instrumental in the London Rowing Club winning many trophies in the 1930s, and for 11 years he was a vice-president of the club. Rew also coached the winning Cambridge Boat Race crews of 1935 and 1936.