Charles Campbell (1805 – July 1851) of Westminster was the first recognised professional world champion single sculler.
The first single sculls world title match took place on 9 September 1831 between Campbell and John Williams of Waterloo Bridge on the Thames course between Westminster and Hammersmith.
Although a fresh wind was blowing the water, it was tolerably smooth as both men made their way to the start.
At the start Coombes dashed off with the lead but Campbell appeared ill at ease and did not settle in good form and pulled slowly and unsteadily.
Off Finch's Campbell caught a ‘crab’ and appeared much hampered by his bag arrangement which he unsuccessfully attempted to get rid of.
Meanwhile, Coombes continued in his uninterrupted manner and by Hammersmith Bridge was about 250 yards ahead.
Campbell and Holmes won the St John's West prize wherry in August 1835.
In a London verses Plymouth match he pulled stroke in a four oar race over 11.5 miles between Westminster and Kew.