In 1856 Playford was instrumental, with Casamajor and Josias Nottidge, in founding the London Rowing Club.
[2] and stroked the club's winning crew in the Grand Challenge Cup at Henley in 1857.
In 1859 he fainted when competing in the Diamond Challenge Sculls but won them again in 1860, beating E D Brickwood after Casamajor stood aside.
[3] Playford was captain of London Rowing Club and was also responsible for helping to establish the Metropolitan Regatta, in 1866.
Playford married Louisa Mary Blake in 1856 and had sons Herbert and Louis.