Right Around the River Blog
9th Annual Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta Is This Weekend
Post Date: 06-21-2012
With summer officially here, we can't imagine a better way to celebrate than our 9th Annual Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta this Saturday! Our annual Sprints Regatta attracts rowing clubs from across the Greater Atlantic region for strong rowing competition, a tradition along the James River dating back to the late 1800s. And after months of preparation and planning by regatta host Virginia Boat Club (who also is based out of Rocketts Landing), we know this year's event will be better than ever.
According to Virginia Boat Club President Steve Abbot, this year's regatta participation is up over 40 percent! Sixteen clubs representing twelve cities from five states will row for top prizes, and clubs from as far away as Tennessee to Washington, D.C., are joining the competitive fun. The Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta also has several new teams competing for the first time, including Capital Rowing Club, D.C. Strokes, Athletes Without Limits and Alexandria Community Rowing, to name a few.
“This has been a great year for rowing!” explains Steve. “We've had great weather that’s translated to hours of time on the water. [VBC] continues to grow as the sport’s popularity increases.”
Steve also points out that during the Olympic years the club frequently sees an increase of interest in rowing, meaning more and more people are getting out on the James River this year — an activity increase we definitely support!
The Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta has even seen an increase in interest from our own River City. The Virginia Boat Club was able to organize more events and sponsors for this year’s race, helping to throw an even bigger event. Spectators will enjoy adaptive rowing events, more hospitality tents and live music throughout the regatta. And if past experience is any indication, we know you can expect a good time the whole family can enjoy. We look forward to seeing you there!
- When: Saturday, June 23
- Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free and open to the public