Salt Spring Island Rowing History: Tom Toynbee's Forgotten Story

Earlier this summer, we began sharing a series of stories celebrating Salt Spring Island's remarkable rowing culture and heritage—stories that deserve to be remembered, not only because they're fascinating local history, but because they help explain why Race Around the Rock has become such a special event for our island.

The latest article, published today in the Gulf Islands Driftwood, tells the story of Tom Toynbee and a remarkable chapter in Canadian rowing history that began right here on Salt Spring.

What started as a small group of dedicated local rowers eventually led to international competition, an invitation to the Henley Royal Regatta, and one of the most memorable performances ever by a Canadian crew. Along the way, it also planted the seeds of a rowing community that continues to grow today.

We're incredibly grateful to Tom for sharing his memories and photographs, helping preserve a story that might otherwise have been lost.

If you enjoy local history, community stories, or simply discovering the people who've helped shape Salt Spring, we think you'll enjoy this one.

Read the full article in the Gulf Islands Driftwood →

This article is part of an ongoing series celebrating the people, history, and vision behind Race Around the Rock and Salt Spring Island Rowing Club.

In the weeks ahead, we'll continue sharing stories that explore our island's rowing heritage while inviting the community to imagine—and help shape—the next chapter of this remarkable legacy.