What with St. John's being the oldest city in North America,it only makes sense that the city be the host of the oldest organized sporting event North America too, right? The St. John's Regatta is just that.
The first record of an organized event is in 1818, but rowing matches were common among ships crews in St. John's Harbour since at least the 1700's.
These days, the Regatta draws crowds of up to 50,000 people annually to the shores of Quidi Vidi Lake. It is widely known as "The Largest Garden Party in the World" because it has been about socializing as much as amateur sport. Concession stands, wheels of fortune, games of chance, and food & drink are just as much part of the Regatta's history as the races. Indeed, many people hardly notice the races, as they are too involved in the merrymaking on the shores of the lake.
Murray Premises Hotel is pleased to sponsor the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Ladies Team.
We "should" be one week away from the big day! For those of you "from away" Regatta day is a little different. Held traditionally on the first Wednesday in August - the holiday and Regatta are weather dependent. On the designated day, the race committee makes an official call early in the morning. If the weather is good....the Regatta goes ahead. If not, it's postponed, everyone goes to work and the next day we go through the same process. A "floating" holiday!!!! (Pun intended!)
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