Isabelle Duncan (S92), the new President of the OC Club Executive Committee, tells us about herself and her plans for the OC Club.
I was somewhat surprised and flattered to receive a call from the OC cricket legend James Bovill (V89) asking if I’d like to be the next OC Club President. I am taking over from Julian Hill (W78), a sparkling golfer and fine President, who has been dedicated and energetic in his approach to all things Old Carthusian. He will be a hard act to follow.
My background is in sport as a commentator and writer, particularly in cricket, and I am eager to engage with all the OC Clubs and Societies. Of course, I will be pushing for more OC female participation to reflect the blossoming co-educational existence of the School. I am already feeling buoyant, having been contacted by OC Fleur Keeble (V18) who is keen to start up an Old Carthusian Women’s Cricket team. Racquets is another sport on my radar now that pupil Amelia (W) has won the 2022 Schoolgirls’ Singles U18 Championship at Queen’s Club - a great achievement! I’d like to see netball and women’s football on the agenda too so please do get in touch if you’d like to get involved in any of the above – we have a budget for you!
It's crucial that the OC Club connects with the younger OC generation and give them incentives to join OC Clubs and Socs and to attend OC events. Our very able Treasurer, Giles Barling (R98), has reported a healthy bank balance so we’re in a position to entice the youth with subsidies and grants for social and networking events and our array of clubs and societies. I want to stress the point that all the sports clubs are open to everyone and not just the swashbuckling sporting heroes. It doesn’t matter if you played for the U14Ds or the 1st XI; we want you all. Please join Charterhouse Connect (www.charterhouseconnect.org.uk) to find the club and societies that are right for you, to find out about OC focused events, and to stay in touch with other Old Carthusians.
I look forward to working closely with the Foundation Office and Brooke Hall and to engaging with numerous OCs through the Clubs and Societies. The next OC Club Executive AGM will be held on 6 December at The Charterhouse in London, please email foundation@charterhouse.org.uk for more information.
