Right Around the River Blog
Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta Draws Crowds
Post Date: 06-28-2011
Our 8th Annual Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta took place on June 25, and thankfully, perfect summer weather joined us for the occasion.
With the sun shining down, nearly 200 spectators lined the banks of the James River to watch boat clubs from across the region compete in the annual regatta -- and what races they enjoyed! Each individual heat showcased talented, dedicated rowers, and the Virginia Boat Club (VBC) certainly fared well: Their men's masters 2+, 4+ and 8+ took first place, as did their women's 2+ and mixed 8+, among other top finishes.
While the sprints regatta focuses on rowing finesse, the occasion is just as much about camaraderie, good times and enjoying a day on the river. As spectators and rowers alike enjoyed delicious food and drinks sponsored by Elliott Park & Associates, everyone was engaged, excited and ready for more!
To VBC President Steve Abbott, this crowd and participant engagement is precisely their goal in hosting the regatta.
“We’re trying to gain awareness with the regional [Washington] DC crews and really grow this race to become a premiere regatta for the mid-Atlantic region,” says Steve.
And, given the event’s successful track record, he believes they are establishing the sprints regatta as a go-to race.
“With continued support from Rocketts Landing and organizations like the City of Richmond, we’re going to continue building this. Next year’s regatta will continue to be even stronger, and within three years, we believe the regatta will be on the map and in all the top crews’ consideration. If you’re a top team, you’ll think of going to Richmond.”
We can’t agree more. From the wonderful feedback given by teams who traveled to compete in the regatta to each year’s growing crowds, we believe the Virginia Boat Club is well on their way to realizing their dream — and continuing Richmond’s century-old legacy of rowing on the river at Rocketts Landing.
And we’re proud to support their growing success!