Professor William Pearce was a member of the British College of Physical Education, and was instructor at the Bowes Park Gymnastic Society in North London from shortly after its inauguration in 1891. He also had a brief spell as an instructor at the London Polytechnic Club. Pearce was well known for giving individual gymnastic demonstrations as well as organising displays and exhibitions by members of the Bowes Club. At the 1900 Paris Olympics, Pearce finished equal 54th out of 135 starters and was commended for his work on the pommelled horse.