If you’re new to the sport of rowing, then you’re in for a treat when you head to a regatta. It is unlike any even you may have been to before. All the Woodson families try to sit together as a team. So, where is the team? Well – look for the swag. We know it’s challenging when you’re new to the sport and new to the team, but trust that everyone is friendly and interested in meeting you!
Cheering is one of our primary duties as spectators! When a Woodson boat goes down the course on their way to the start, all the parents get together to yell “HEY, WOODSON!” as loud as possible. We will know that the kids hear us when a coxswain or rowers take a moment to wave at us.
REGATTA WATCHING TIPS
❖ Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even if you take the shuttle from Lot C to the grandstand, there is still a lot of walking to be done.
❖ Dress in layers. The morning can start off very cold and damp but then be hot and humid by the time the regatta is over.
❖ The grandstand is not protected from the rain and is minimally protected from the sun. Bring rain gear, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
❖ Bring binoculars and a camera.
❖ Make sure your cell phones are charged! Cellular service at the grandstands is spotty AT BEST.
❖ Print off a copy of the regatta schedule to bring with you. The schedule lets you know the time of your rower’s event as well as the lane in which he or she will be rowing. A link to the schedule will be sent via Slack whenever it is released by VASRA.
❖ Many folks bring folding lawn chairs, a cushion or a stadium seat to improve the comfort level of the concrete grandstand seating.
❖ Food is available at the grandstand concession stand. You can view the menu here: https://www.vasra.org/regattas/concessions-menu. Bring some cash for lunch or drinks. You are also welcome to bring all of your own food or drink, but remember that you have to hike it in. Alcohol and propane/grilling/open flames are not permitted.
❖ Pets are not permitted on regatta days.
❖ Woodson has the reputation of having the best, and most fun, cheering section. Come ready to root for our kids!
❖ Please remember that sportsmanlike conduct is expected by all representatives of Woodson Rowing, whether a team member, fellow student, coach, or parent.
LINKS TO LEARN MORE!
Curious what to look for at a race, other than the obvious?
Check out our Regatta Viewer’s Guide!
Find our lineups (so you know who is sitting in what seat and which boat) the day before a regatta on Facebook or Instagram!
Follow VASRA on X to get real time updates (although be prepared for lagging if you are at the grandstands because the wi-fi is spotty there).
Are you new to all of this and overwhelmed?
Check out our Novice Tips page!
General Info
Regatta Schedule
Sandy Run Park: Information, Parking
Printable Oar Spotter (best on legal size paper)
Regatta Information: General info on the types of regattas we attend as a team
