Despite bad weather, St. Duje Regatta was unstoppable: exhibition races and legends rowed in Spinut

On the last day of St. Duje International Regatta, a strong south-westerly and worrisome indecisive sky moved regatta’s location from traditional Riva in front of Gusar rowing club.

Main roles in two exhibition races were played by three European universities: Oxford, Cambridge and the host, University of Split, as well as representatives of African, Asian and other European universities. Legends’ race followed as top of the rowing competition in Split, where legends from Oxford, Cambridge and University of Split competed.

In the first race, which showed exceptional value and importance of university sports, team from Imperial College won.

For the first time in its long history, St. Duje Regatta hosted crews from Africa and Asia, which confirmed the international character and reputation the Regatta enjoys in the world. Oxford's eight celebrated, while great Africans from Johannesburg took second and the team from distant Korea, equally valuable third place.

Traditionally, Legends’ race between Oxford, Cambridge and Split’s teams, which have numerous Olympic, world and European medals between them, attracted alumni who are today successful business people, all rowers at heart, to jump back into boats, take to rowing and remember unforgettable memories.

Toni Gamulin, one of this race’s founders and organizers, thanked all participants, referring to the weather: "Due to the weather, we had to hold today's race in Spinut. Of course, we regret that exhibition races and Legends’ races did not traditionally take place on the most beautiful rowing course in the world, but our infrastructure and equipment simply did not permit it. We proved that this event sets Split apart from other cities and places it on world’s tourist map in a special way."

Great English Olympian, double gold medallist in two Games, Alex Gregory, recalled his impressive career and pointed out: "In my career, I had the opportunity to be part of biggest rowing events in the world and I can certainly say that St. Duje Regatta is among the best in terms of organizations and emotions we all feel in Split. I'm sure we'll see you next year!"