English Summary

The 126st Dutch Varsity Regatta took place in The Netherlands Sunday 12 April 2009. The first race was held in 1878 between the universities of Leyden and Delft. They raced their "Oude Vieren" (Varsity Fours) on a 3 kilometers long course, then still with turning-buoy. Over the years other universities were invited to take part. For a long time the regatta was the playground of the traditional student societies, but is now open to all student rowing clubs. A large part of the regatta is held on the standard 6-lane course over 2 kilometers. The final of the 'Oude Vier' however is rowed in 7 lanes, 3 kilometers long and comparable to the setting of 1878 (albeit without the turning-buoy). Another special rule is that no combinations (different clubs in one boat) are allowed in any race, and all competitors must be full-time students at a Dutch university or school for higher education. The 'Oude Vier' remains the most important and prestigious race in The Netherlands!

A few notable traditions are attached to the main race; firstly the president of the winning club takes up the challenge of bringing a victory crown to his crew. Other club members typically accompany him in the water. Ecstatic from joy they will strip down to be still fully dressed in only their club tie.

Secondly, the winners of the 'Oude Vier' all get solid gold medals. It is customary for a winner to have it prepared in a special way (e.g. a necklace) for his bride. Eight of all nine crew members of the golden Holland Eight from Atlanta had already won a gold medal at the Varsity Regatta.

Last but not least the winning club is supposed to organise a 'kroegjool', a large party with free beer for all competitors and spectators! Usually clubs will collect pledges for a total of 10,000 liters of beer.

Some data:

  • Name: University Rowing Regatta "Varsity"
  • Organiser: KNSRB (Royal Dutch Students Rowing Association)
  • Admission: aproximately EUR 8.=
  • Place: Amsterdam-Rhine Canal near Houten
  • Route: take the train to Houten, chartered buses take you to the spectator area
  • There is a 30 m2 video wall at the finish!
  • Old Regatta Posters and Pictures

Requests for information may be addressed to this email address.