Champion Of Champions
The Champion of Champions trophy is awarded to the Open finalist whose time is the best when compared to the existing championship record. It was donated by long-term indoor rowing supporters Harry and Jessie Welsh. Over 150 years old, the trophy was made by Jessie's grandfather, a master silversmith from Birmingham.
The 2009 trophy was awarded to the Men Open Hwt winner Garath Archer, the former rugby union England International. Garath beat a strong field, including 12 members of the GB rowing squad - Olympic medallists included! The winning time of 5:51.1 was less than 10 seconds behind multi-Champion of Champions winner Graham Benton's BIRC record.
Previous Winners
| Year | Name | Category | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Graham Benton | Men Hwt | 5:46.1 |
| 2007 | Graham Benton | Men Hwt | 5:42.5 |
| 2006 | Graham Benton | Men Hwt | 5:46.7 |
| 2005 | Naomi Hoogesteger | Women Lwt | 6:28.0 |
| 2004 | Graham Benton | Men Hwt | 5:53.5 |
| 2003 | Matthew Pinsent | Men Hwt | 5:47.9 |
| 2002 | Lisa Schlenker | Women Lwt | 7:04.1 |