The Regata Storica brings together Venetian history, culture and rowing in a unique celebration. The festivities begin with a magnificent historical procession along the Grand Canal, featuring richly decorated traditional boats and crews dressed in period costumes. The spectacle attracts thousands of spectators, as well as numerous international guests and film stars who gather in Venice for the film festival taking place at the same time.

As part of the celebrations, we were also honoured to compete in the university race on the Grand Canal. We faced three other university crews, including teams from the Universities of Venice, Padua and Warwick. The race was contested in traditional historic galleons, each crewed by eight rowers and a coxswain.


Although we were unable to claim victory against the strong Italian crews this year, we put in a determined performance and secured a strong third place. Competing in the heart of Venice, right on the Grand Canal, was a truly memorable experience and a special opportunity to be part of one of the highlights of the Regata Storica.