Charles Rew (30 September 1898 – 3 October 1972) was a British rower who competed in the men’s eight event at the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Early life and education
Rew was born in Brentford, England. Details of his early education are not extensively documented, but he left school at the age of sixteen to enlist in the British Army.
Military service
During the First World War, Rew served with the Royal Artillery, seeing action in France. On his enlistment papers he listed his age as 19 and his occupation as an accountant. He later served again in the Second World War, this time with the Royal Navy.
Rowing career
Rew was a member of the Thames Rowing Club, where he achieved notable success at the Henley Royal Regatta, winning four medals, including the Grand Challenge Cup in 1923. He was selected to represent Great Britain in the men’s eight at the 1924 Summer Olympics; the crew finished fourth in the competition.
Coaching and administration
After his competitive career, Rew became a rowing coach. He was mentored by the renowned coach Steve Fairbairn and applied Fairbairn’s disciplined methods while coaching at the London Rowing Club, contributing to its successes in the 1930s. Rew also served as vice‑president of the club for eleven years. He coached the Cambridge University Boat Club to victories in the Boat Race in 1935 and 1936.
Later life and death
Charles Rew retired from active involvement in rowing and lived in L’Ancresse, Guernsey, where he died on 3 October 1972 at the age of 74.
Legacy
Rew is remembered for his contributions to British rowing both as an Olympic athlete and as a coach who helped shape subsequent generations of rowers. His service in both world wars and his long-standing role within the London Rowing Club underscore his broader impact on British sport and community life.