OCUK History

Back on a cool April day in 2001 Outrigger Club United Kingdom (OCUK) was formed.

The vision of paddlers from Thames Dragons Dragon Boat Club and the Hong Kong Island Paddle Club, OCUK began its life on the mighty Thames. Today, the club's activities extend considerably farther than our beloved stretch of English water. Over the years, OCUK has developed paddlers' skills, enjoyed many laughs and has raced all over the world. OCUK's crews have competed in dozens of countries, from Canada to New Zealand, Hawaii to Italy, in such events as Molokai, Hamilton Island Cup, IVF World Sprint Championships, IVF World Distance Championships, Kauai World Challenge, Liberty Challenge, Howe Sound, Queen Liliuokalani, Maui Nui... OCUK draws on the spirit of its members and their desire to become the best paddlers they can be. The Club continues to grow and lead the way in the advancement of the sport within the United Kingdom.

OCUK prides itself on giving all paddlers of all abilities and ages the opportunity to excel at the sport of outrigger. And it is the combined dedication of such a diverse group of sports people that makes OCUK the UK’s premiere outrigger club.

The founders of OCUK are: Caroline Hutt, Brian Denholm, Bobby Furbs, Elaine Smith, Michael McDermott, Timothy Osborne, Jack Wormald, Dave Ralphs