PARA RACING AT MAY 8TH-9TH, 2026 THE DAD VAIL REGATTA Few events are as closely tied to collegiate rowing as the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. Now marking its 87th edition, this regatta continues to serve as a cornerstone of the sprint racing season, carrying a legacy that reaches far beyond the finish line. Over the decades, the Jefferson Dad Vail has grown and adapted, but its core identity remains rooted in opportunity. Each year, programs from across the country make the trip east, drawn by both the tradition of the event and its ongoing commitment to expanding access within the sport. That commitment has taken tangible form in recent years through the growth of Para and inclusion racing, the transition to the Cooper River, and the addition of club varsity competition. In 2026, that evolution continues with an important step forward for Para rowing. All Para events are now open to competitors regardless of student status, creating a broader and more inclusive field of athletes. In partnership with USRowing, these races will also function as a Para Talent Identification opportunity, with top finishers earning invitations to the Para Development Camp from August 2nd–10th. The camp a will conclude with racing at the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta, providing a direct pathway to further highlevel competition. Further reinforcing this commitment is the return of the Blackwall Duling Challenge, designed to support and promote Paralympic sculling. The top male and female PR1 1x scullers will each receive a $2,000 scholarship toward participation in the 2026 USRowing Para Development Camp. The continued success and availability of these opportunities is made possible through the support of the Gold Cup Foundation, whose contributions remain instrumental in advancing Para rowing within this regatta and beyond. In a sport where opportunities for Para athletes are still expanding, the role of the Jefferson Dad Vail extends beyond just hosting competition—it continues to help shape a more inclusive landscape for rowing as a whole.
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