Royal St. John's Regatta

The Royal St. John's Regatta is North America's oldest continuous sporting event with documented proof of 1816 boat races. There is credible contention that St. John's regattas were held even earlier than 1816, likely in the 1700's.

Related Topics:
North America - 1816

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Held on beautiful Quidi Vidi Lake in downtown St. John's, Newfoundland, the Regatta is scheduled for the first Wednesday of August. If weather isn't suitable, and wind conditions are very important, the event is postponed until the next suitable day.

Related Topics:
Quidi Vidi Lake - St. John's, Newfoundland

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Crews row six-member, coxswained, fixed-seat racing shells that are as identical as possible and are the property of the Royal St. John's Regatta Committee. Men's crews row a 2.450 km course , women's crews row a 1.225 km course , and all crews are required to turn buoys and return to the start-finish line.

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A growing number of people, local and foreign, visit Quidi Vidi Lake each year for the event, averaging around 50,000 in recent years. Aside from the rowing competitions, the Royal St. John's Regatta is well-known for its lakeside entertainment. The Regatta host hundreds of booths operated by individuals and organizations, ranging from various games of chance to food and drink.

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