Trent University Mourns the Passing of David Christopher ‘Chris’ Leach ‘70
Chris Leach is widely considered a ‘founding father’ of the rowing community in Peterborough.
Trent University is deeply saddened to announce the passing of David Christopher ‘Chris’ Leach ’70 (Peter Robinson College), a visionary coach and passionate athlete whose legacy helped shape the landscape of rowing at Trent and beyond.
When Chris arrived at Trent in 1970, he was struck by the unique waterway, inspired by the Otonabee river that flowed through the Symons campus. Seeing its potential, he approached the University with a bold idea: to launch a rowing program. With borrowed boats from nearby clubs and a steadfast belief in what could be, the Trent Rowing Club was born.
Just one year later, Chris led the charge to establish the inaugural Head of the Trent Regatta. Now in its 53rd year, the event has grown into North America’s largest single-day head-race regatta, drawing more than 1,200 athletes from over 50 universities and clubs across Canada and the northern United States.
Chris’s dedication to the sport did not end at Trent. In 1973, he founded the Peterborough Rowing Club, further cementing his role in developing the local rowing community. He also served as head coach of the Trent University Rowing Club throughout the 1970s, inspiring generations of student-athletes with his determination and vision.
A two-time Olympian, Chris represented Canada in the men’s coxless four at both the 1960 and 1964 Olympic Games. His motto, “Step Back Non-Believers,” continues to resonate with Excalibur rowers as they pursue excellence on the path first carved by Chris.
The University extends heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of Chris Leach, and to all who knew him at Trent.