Despite Bedford Regatta having been founded in 1853, it was not until 1886 that Bedford Rowing Club was founded on 15 March 1886 at a meeting chaired by the Mayor. It was minuted that:

1. That it be advisable that a Rowing Club be formed in Bedford.
2. That it be called the Bedford Amateur Rowing Club.
3. That amateurs only, as defined by the rules of the Amateur Rowing Association
   Amateur Rowing Association
   British Rowing, formerly the Amateur Rowing Association , is the governing body in England for the sport of rowing. It is also responsible for the development and organisation of international rowing teams representing Great Britain...
   
   , be eligible to become members.
4. That a Committee be elected by the meeting to draw up Rules for the Club & amount of subscriptions.
5. That all members be swimmers.

The original minutes are held in the Bedfordshire archives; a copy is on display in the Club.

Current activities

The club regularly competes across the UK at all levels and has a broad membership base, from complete novices and juniors through to senior oarsmen and veterans.

Competitions

The club hosts three Head Races

Head race

A head race is a time-trial competition in the sport of rowing, also known as crew to a few USA organizations. Head races are typically held in the fall and spring seasons. These events draw many athletes as well as observers...

 each year as well as a popular Sprint Regatta:

• The Eights & Fours Head is held on the second Sunday in February.
• The Spring Small Boats Head is usually held on the second Sunday in April, though the date may be changed, depending on when Easter is celebrated.
• The Quarts Sprint Regatta is held on the Sunday between Henley Royal Regatta
  Henley Royal Regatta
  Henley Royal Regatta is a rowing event held every year on the River Thames by the town of Henley-on-Thames, England. The Royal Regatta is sometimes referred to as Henley Regatta, its original name pre-dating Royal patronage...
  
   and the National Championships.
• The Autumn Small Boats Head is held on the second Sunday in October.

External links

• Bedford Rowing Club
• British Rowing
  Amateur Rowing Association
  British Rowing, formerly the Amateur Rowing Association , is the governing body in England for the sport of rowing. It is also responsible for the development and organisation of international rowing teams representing Great Britain...