Coaching Team 25/26
Jim ALLAN
Head Coach
Jim learnt to row 20 years ago with @kcsrowing enjoying a successful junior career with multiple wins nationally and internationally, representing GB at U16/U18 and Scotland at U18. He has since moved into the launch coaching at several clubs including Thames, Vesta and Sons of the Thames. Jim has a sports degree from Durham University, with a dissertation on S&C practices in club level women’s rowing. Joining us in September 2025 he will be leading the coaching team for the coming season. Jim is a L2 British Rowing coach and L2 GB Weightlifting S&C coach.
Gareth FURBY
Assistant Coach – Competitive Squad
Gareth is a L2 British Rowing qualified coach and former Thames RC rower joining BBLRC in 2024. He recently took on the head coach position for the Women’s Masters squad at Putney Town RC as well as an assistant coach for BBLRC. Having raced at Henley, Gareth is a member of the Stewards Enclosure.
Sian KUNERT
Coach – Development Squad
Having learned to row herself at BBLRC in 2013, Sian was Vice Captain from 2014-16. During this time she managed the Get Fit and Row (GFAR) programme and trained to be a rowing coach, taking on responsibility for the development squad in 2016. In 2017-19 Sian was Club Captain and stepped back from coaching to focus on club management. Sian returned to coaching in September 2023 to lead the Vesta RC novice programme to a win in the Club Novice category at the Head of the River Race in 2024. She returned back to BBLRC to support GFAR in 2025. Sian has focused on novice and development rowers throughout her coaching career with the aim of bringing more people into the sport to develop them for a successful rowing career. Sian is often seen accompanied by launch dog/coach Spencer, as seen in her photo.
Sarah KELLY
Assistant Coach – Development Squad
Sarah has been rowing for over 15 years and a member of BBLRC senior squad for the past nine, where she also served as Vice Captain. Currently completing the British Rowing Assistant Rowing Coach course, Sarah supports the Development Squad and GFAR courses, and is passionate about inspiring others to discover rowing and achieve their potential on the water.
Jack DILLON
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Jack has over 7 years of experience coaching both rowing teams and individual athletes, He is passionate about helping rowers reach their full potential both on and off the water. A firm believer that strength and conditioning is a vital part of rowing performance, and a self-confessed S&C nerd, Jack loves diving into the science behind training. Jack’s goal is to create a fun, welcoming, and relaxed gym environment where everyone from complete beginners to seasoned rowers feel comfortable, supported and motivated to push their limits. Whether it’s improving technique, building power, or just enjoying a great session together, Jack makes training both effective and enjoyable. This year Jack will be completing his British Weightlifting Diploma Level 4 to add to his personal trainer and crossfit qualifications.