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Discover how British rowing became the centre of a class war that ended up in Parliament.

Rowing had working class origins but despite its humble roots as entertainment for river workers, the rowing eight found itself at the heart of a battle over class in the 1880s.

The biggest rowing clubs in England had set up the Amateur Rowing Association which banned professionals and working class amateurs from racing in its events.

The ban caused an outcry over 'sporting snobbery'.

After a dispute with the Australian Olympic team, who were also banned from its competitions, Parliament was force to intervene.