Regatta in progress!
Despite the most trying of times, the Regatta Committee were delighted that the 176th Regatta could proceed. Covid restrictions were lifted in England on the 21 July, which meant that our outdoor event could proceed as normal.
Of course, we have been careful, adding additional safety and security measures as recommended, but what a joy to see smiling faces and competitive sport back on the River Dart.
The festivities kicked off on Saturday the 21 August with our Family Funday featuring the Regatta Dog Show. Dartmouth School of Dance performed in spectacular style, as did Dartington Morris Men. We had an extremely large pirate ship full of slides and ball pools, Professor Bumble, traditional fairground games and new for 2021, Animal HQ, a petting station where children meet all sorts of animals from tarantulas to rabbits! The gardens were certainly overcome with a record number of dogs, all vying to be Regatta Top Dog. We had several classes including best puppy, best bitch and best dog and best dog handler. It really was a fantastic day, and we were so lucky the rain stayed away until late afternoon.
In the evening the Bandstand was transformed into DJ central, with Josh Pichowski and Stuart Millard on music for our Silent Disco. There is something slightly unnerving about the quiet of a crowd, apart from the dancing feet! Everyone who came certainly let their hair down and danced the evening away, quietly!
Earlier in the day, the legendary Kon-Tiki raft race took place, starting at the Higher Ferry slip, and finishing by the Boatfloat. What we lacked in entries, was surely made up for in sheer determination and grit to win. One raft were so determined, that even though they could not physically get onto their raft, they swam it down the whole course. It was a delight to see.
Local rowing started on Sunday in bright sunshine, continuing throughout Monday. Our local teams train throughout the year for Regatta and all races are fiercely fought. All heats went off without a hitch and we look forward to seeing the finals on Friday.
The rest of the week promises dry weather, so looking good for our Regatta Shopping Parade, the Official Opening Ceremony, the many music events in Coronation Park and so much more!
We hope everyone has a great Regatta!
