Taurus Boat Club is aware of recent developments concerning former Oxford Brookes University Boat Club coaches Richard Spratley and Henry Bailhache-Webb.
As has been publicly reported, British Rowing has reviewed its earlier decisions to impose permanent suspensions and has confirmed that no suspension now applies in either case, with defined conditions attached in the event that Mr Bailhache-Webb returns to coaching under its jurisdiction. Oxford Brookes University’s decisions to terminate the employment of both individuals remain unchanged.
Taurus Boat Club is an independent alumni association. We are not involved in employment, disciplinary or regulatory processes, and we respect the authority and independence of both the University and British Rowing within their respective roles.
Our primary responsibility is to our alumni community, which includes individuals with a wide range of experiences and perspectives. We recognise that this matter has been deeply felt by all of our community, and there are strongly held and differing views. Taurus will not comment on the underlying allegations or the merits of the decisions reached by others.
Taurus is committed to fostering a community in which members can engage thoughtfully and respectfully. We support the principle of open discussion, but equally we expect discourse to be conducted with care, integrity and regard for the wellbeing of others. Freedom of expression within our alumni community must sit alongside a shared responsibility to avoid harm and to uphold the standards of respect that define our sport and our institution. This includes engagement in alumni forums and online platforms, where members are expected to discuss matters responsibly, avoid speculation about ongoing or past proceedings, and maintain a courteous and considerate tone.
We continue to work constructively with Oxford Brookes University and remain focused on supporting alumni engagement, the positive development of rowing and the bright future of the OBUBC. The welfare, safety and dignity of all participants in rowing remain central to our values.
Lastly, we would like to offer our sincere support and gratitude to the current coaching team — Ali Brown, Bodo Schulenburg, Morgan Baynham-Williams, and Hugo Sandars — who are doing excellent work down at Cholsey.
Taurus Committee
Oxford Brookes Boat Club Alumni Association