85th Anniversary – A History of the Dad Vail Regatta 

85th Anniversary – A History of the Dad Vail Regatta 

By Bill Jurgens             

The Dad Vail Regatta is rich in history and traditions which make it unlike any other regatta in the country. The historical beginning in 1934 would not have been possible without the insights and unselfish leadership of its founders, Russel Stanley “Rusty” Callow and Lev Brett, the architect. Callow first saw the need to provide a regatta for programs which did not have the resources to compete at the highest level and for emerging programs not ready to compete at the highest level.  

With stops at the University of Washington (1922-1927); the University of Pennsylvania (1927-1950); and the United States Naval Academy (1950-1959) where he coached the 1952 Olympic gold medal eight, Callow wanted to hold a race for his colleague and friend Harry Emerson “Dad” Vail.

 For the first race in 1934, Callow donated a trophy called the “Dad” Vail Trophy in honor of his friend who at the time was the coach at the University of Wisconsin which had limited resources, less than adequate workout space, and no indoor rowing tank. Callow wrote that Harry Emerson “Dad” Vail was a beloved person. He was called dad by his rowers and epitomized what the Dad Vail Regatta stands for in his caring for people, his display of sportsmanship, and his positive and persevering attitude. (U. T. Bradley, circa 1961).

After the Dad Vail Regatta began in 1934, the founding members realized structure was needed for the regatta to grow and better serve its constituents. In 1939 the Dad Vail Regatta became organized with a slate of officers and a constitution thanks in large part to Lev Brett, who had the impetus for the formation and as a result the regatta became known as the Dad Vail Rowing Association.   

Another important change for the regatta came in 1989 when they became a 501(c)(3) so volunteers could be protected from the risks associated with being a part of the Dad Vail Regatta; this was a relatively new protection granted by the state of Pennsylvania for incorporated organizations. With this needed change, the Dad Vail Regatta’s corporate identity became the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee. 

The Dad Vail Regatta and its leadership have changed over the years but the basic principle of providing a regatta that serves the interests and needs of all rowing programs has remained consistent throughout its 85-year history. The most recent change is having its first female President, Kirsten Ledwith Morasco to continue in the tradition of great leaders. Morasco exemplifies the importance of volunteerism and family involvement in running the Dad Vail Regatta. Her father, Matt Ledwith, long term Dad Vail Official, introduced his children to the enjoyment and rewards of working with other volunteers.  

Other outstanding leaders who preceded Morasco were Lev Brett (1939-1950), Anthony Savarese (1950-1952), Jim Nesworthy (1952-1954), Jack Bratten (1954-1966), Richard O’Brien (1966-1971), Tom Conville (1971-1977), Jack Galloway (1977-2001), and most recently Jim Hanna (2001-2023).  

The featured event of the Dad Vail Regatta has been the men’s and women’s varsity heavyweight eight. Throughout its history, which spans eight and half decades, five rowing programs helped develop their crews by competing in the Dad Vail Regatta before moving on to the IRA. These programs were Rutgers University with seven wins (1935-1942), Boston University with four victories (1947-1950), Dartmouth College with two (1954-1955), Brown University with three (1959-1961), and Northeastern University with one (1965).  

Marietta College won the first Dad Vail Regatta in 1934. The following year, Rutgers University began its seven-year win streak until the event had to be put on hold for four years (1943-1946) because of World War II.  

The success of Rutgers University in the 30s and 40s resulted in the retiring of the first “Dad” Vail Trophy to Rutgers, which coincided with Rutgers advancing to the IRA. In 1947 Lev Brett, Chair of the Board of Stewards, provided the second Dad Vail trophy which he presented to Head Coach James Nesworthy of Boston University. In the 50s, LaSalle University twice won three consecutive men’s varsity eight races for a total of six victories (1951-1953 and 1956-1958). The 60s saw Georgetown University and Marietta College fighting it out for dominance with Georgetown winning four times (1962, 1964, 1968, and 1969) and Marietta with three victories (1963, 1967, and 1968). The 70s saw the emergence of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy who won six times (1972, and 1975-1979), The 80s began the long-term dominance of Temple University with six victories (1983-1987, and 1989) and Florida Tech (FIT) followed with two wins (1982 and 1988). The 90s were a complete dominance by Temple’s men’s varsity eight (1990-1999). The first decade of the 2000s saw three programs with at least two wins; Temple University with four (2000-2001 and 2003-2004), University of Michigan with two (2005 and 2009), and Purdue University with two (2007-2008). In the 2010’s decade, there were three programs with two victories; University of Michigan (2010 and 2011), Florida Tech (2015 and 2016), and Drexel University (2013 and 2017). The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta was cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2020s-decade, Temple won in 2021 before Drexel registered two victories (2022 and 2023). 

The Dad Vail Regatta introduced women’s rowing competition in 1976 with the varsity eight as the featured event. Ithaca College won two out of the four varsity eight races in the 70s (1976 and 1979). In the 80s, Western Ontario won three times (1981,1982 and 1989) with the University of New Hampshire winning two (1985 and 1986). The only team in the 90s to win more than once was Temple University with two (1994 and 1996). The first decade of the 2000s saw the University of Massachusetts winning twice (2002 and 2003). In the 2010’s decade, the University of Massachusetts won three times (2014-2016) and Boston University won twice (2018 and 2019).  The Dad Vail Regatta was cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2020s-decade, Drexel University won in 2021, Princeton University won in 2022, and Boston University won in 2023. 

The Jack Bratten Overall Point Trophy was established in 1967 to recognize the men’s overall champion, which in 1976 became the combined men’s and women’s overall champion. With the expansion of teams and events two additional all-point trophies were established in 1986: the Nancy J. Seitz Women’s All-Point Trophy and the Dr. Thomas Kerr Men’s All-Point Trophy.   

The traditions and practices of the Dad Vail Regatta are a big part of its success. A tented banquet is held on Friday evening following racing action to recognize volunteers for their service; to celebrate the 25th and 50thanniversary winners of the men’s and women’s varsity eights and to recognize the Coach of the Year along with the Volunteer of the Year. 

Volunteers who have been with the regatta for five years receive a Dad Vail Regatta Lapel Pin and volunteers who have been with the regatta for 10 years receive their highly coveted Gold Jacket.   

Another important tradition is showing appreciation for the communities surrounding the regatta by hosting an art poster contest for high school students and providing paid internships for the underrepresented population of local college students. It has always been a goal of the Dad Vail Regatta to provide the coaches and student-athletes with an experience that will last for a lifetime.  

 

 

References: Historical information provided by Jim Hanna, past president, Jack Galloway, past president and chair, and Ed Levin, Director of Publicity;  U. T. Bradley (circa 1961). The Dad Vail Story. The Rollins Press, Inc.; and Ralph Lindamood (1994). Marietta Crew: A History of Rowing at Marieta College; and the Dad Vail Regatta web site. 

 

Drexel Men’s Rowing Program continued to row Into history books at Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net 

 Each spring when the blue and gold blades hit the water Paul Savell, Drexel’s Director of Rowing/Men’s coach knows the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is quickly approaching. While the thought of the event brings a smile to his face he knows it will also bring plenty of challenges!

“There are always anxious moments,” said Savell. “There are many talented crews at the event, and you always want to have your best result.”

Last year those anxious moments Savell mentioned began as his team prepared to face tough competition in the Grand Finale of the Men’s Varsity Heavyweight Eight. With LaSalle on one side and Colgate on the other, Savell knew his team would have to be almost perfect if they were going to defend their title.

When the final race started, all three teams came off the stake boats clean. At the midway point of the 2,000-meter course, LaSalle and Drexel began to separate themselves from the field. With the two clubs having tight races throughout the fall and spring seasons, Drexel senior coxswain Sam Desilva knew when it was time to tell his boat make their move.

“Sam was very important because we were being pressed all the way down the course and he just kept up calm and focused under the pressure,” said Savell.

With about 750 meters remaining, the Dragons ramped up their speed and opened up a three-seat lead and used that cushion to fend off a late LaSalle charge to earn the win and their second consecutive varsity eight crown!

“It meant everything to see our crew execute a complete 2000-meter race, especially when they were able to fend off such talented competitors’ said Savell in a recent interview. “They rowed like they were bullet proof, defending any shots other boats were taking all the way down the course. Then finally to pull away in our sprint was pure beauty.  It’s a testament to their hard work, determination and trust they had in each other.  It was incredibly rewarding as a coach to see them achieve success on the Dad Vail stage.”

Savell added, “The varsity eight win was a testament to the total team effort.  Every member of the team, from the rowers to the coaches and support staff played a vital role in each of our boats’ great performance and the team title.”

“When I was in high school, I always said I wanted to go to college and be on a team that won a lot of races,” said senior Josh Diggons, who rowed in the sixth seat. “This was the second year in a row we won the varsity eight. The experience is something I will never forget.”

As they prepare for this year, Drexel is looking to become the first program since Temple (1999-01 – the last three of 13 in a row) to win three consecutive Varsity Heavyweight crowns.

The 85th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by Coca-Cola will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 10, and Saturday, May 11.

Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Holds A Special Place in Heart for Georgetown Women’s Rowing

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net 

 

The Georgetown University women’s rowing program coaches have always preached the importance of history and how past teams have always paved the way for future teams.

One important piece of history has been the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. Prior to the NCAA women’s rowing championship being added in 1998, the Dad Vail Regatta served as a championship for many years.

During those years, the Hoyas experienced success at the Dad Vail winning the Women’s Varsity Open Weight Eight race three times (1983, 1987,1993). The lightweight team has had their own success in the Open weight race with back-to-back runner up finishes in 2022 and 2023.

“During those years, the program found great success and it is special to return to the regatta with hopes of continuing such a strong legacy,’ said Head Coach Kendall Mulligan.

Women’s lightweight coach Abbey Wilkowski added, “Dad Vail’s hold a special place with our team. It is not only an opportunity for some great speed and racing to be showcased, but it is close to home for a lot of our athletes. Being able to race in Philly, or even near it with the move to Cooper, allows many of our athlete’s families to come cheer them on over two great days of racing. This race has become a staple of our program and we look forward to it every year.”

For the first time since 2019 (mostly due to scheduling conflicts), Georgetown will bring their lightweight and Open weight women’s teams and look to continue the legacy they have built with hopes of adding new memories.

Mulligan said, “The Open weight women are excited to return to the Dad Vail. Having last competed in the Dad Vail as a full team in 2019 and then as a small covid restricted squad of only 10 athletes in 2021, this will be an exciting first run at the regatta for the majority of our athletes. Additionally, it continues to give our athletes a championships experience before the Patriot League Championship, held the following weekend on 5/17 also on the Cooper River. The women also remain excited to build on the legacy of those that came before us and competed at the Dad Vail. As Georgetown Women’s Rowing comes up on its 50th anniversary celebration in 2025-2026, the team has connected with alumni and heard the thrilling stories of competitive races over years past.”

With the Dad Vail less than three weeks away, the Hoyas hope to build on what they did in the fall that continued into the winter where they continued to develop with hopes their hard work will transition into success in the spring.

The 85th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by Coca-Cola will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 10, and Saturday, May 11.

Kirsten Ledwith Morasco, First Female President of Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta
610-246-5902 (Cell phone)
levins51@verizon.net

The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee (DVROC), which stages the prestigious Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is pleased to announce the election of Kirsten Ledwith Morasco as the next President and first female president, in the Dad Vail’s 85-year history.

After serving as a dedicated Board member for 25 years and holding a variety of roles within the organization, including Recording Secretary. Morasco was unanimously elected by the Board of Directors to become the organization’s next President.

Originally formed in 1934, as an event for fledgling rowing programs, Dad Vail has grown into one of the largest and most diverse collegiate regattas in North America. Now the event, while still supporting fledgling rowing programs, continually draws top men’s and women’s programs from all NCAA Divisions and was the first collegiate regatta to offer para-rowing events.

“The Dad Vail Regatta and its 85-year history is very special to me,” said Morasco. “The significance of my role as the first female President of the organization is not lost on me. As a longtime volunteer of the regatta, I am proud of the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee’s accomplishments and in particular the support the regatta has given to women’s rowing and more recently para-rowing; I am honored to be appointed as the organization’s next President.

While Morasco has served as a Board Member since 1998, involvement in the regatta is in her blood. Thanks to her father, Matt Ledwith, who was a longtime volunteer and Board Member, Kirsten was introduced to the Dad Vail Regatta at the tender age of five, a similar experience for her brothers and sister.

“Over the years, Kirsten has performed a variety of volunteer jobs along the racecourse, most recently serving as Director of Awards and Recognition. The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee can be confidently anticipated to continue to uphold the core values which sustain their 501(c)3 not-for-profit mission under Kirsten Morasco’s capable leadership,” stated outgoing Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee President Jim Hanna.

Morasco added, ““For me and many of the volunteers, Dad Vail has been and continues to be a family affair.  We encourage our children, siblings, and friends to get involved and support the rowing community.  Like my father, I enjoy working with all the incredible individuals and our sponsors who make Dad Vail the amazing event it is, and I look forward to continuing our traditions and building upon our current legacy”.

The next Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will be staged once more on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken, New Jersey on Friday, May 10, 2024, and Saturday, May 11, 2024, and will celebrate its 85th anniversary.

 

 

 

 

Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Returns to Cooper River Park for 85th Anniversary

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta
610-246-5902 (Cell phone)
levins51@verizon.net

The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee is pleased to stage the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta for a second consecutive year on the Cooper River on Friday, May 10, 2024, and Saturday, May 11, 2024.

“We are pleased to return to the Cooper River for another year to stage the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta,” said Jim Hanna, President of the Dad Vail Organizing Committee. “Our decision was predicated on the certainty of precision and predictability for advance planning needed during the course of preparing to celebrate our 85th Anniversary Year Regatta!”

“With significant investment and enhancements over the last 20 years Cooper River Park and our Olympic rowing venue has become one of the best true race courses in the nation and the world,” said Camden County Commissioner Jeff Nash. “With that said, we are ecstatic to welcome back one of the most renowned regattas in the country, the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, for its second year at the park. As we continue to grow the sport of rowing and respect its time-honored traditions the relocation of this great regatta underscores everything Camden County has to offer as a regional destination. Furthermore, the regatta season brings more than $20 million annually into our local economy based on the influx of visitors who patronize our small business community. There is no question in my mind that the rowers, families and fans will contribute to that when we see them again in early May of 2024.”

About Jefferson
Jefferson, located in the greater Philadelphia region and southern New Jersey, is reimagining health care and education to create unparalleled value. Jefferson is more than 42,000 people strong, dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients, preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st century careers, and conducting research leading to new discoveries on the basic science, clinical, population science and applied levels. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and four schools offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students. Jefferson serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 18 hospitals (ten are Magnet® designated by the ANCC for nursing excellence) and over 50 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson is also home to Health Partners Plans, a not-for-profit managed healthcare organization serving more than 290,000 members in Southeastern Pennsylvania with a broad range of health coverage options through Health Partners Medicare, Health Partners (Medicaid) and KidzPartners (Children’s Health Insurance Program

About Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University, founded in 1824 as the Jefferson Medical College, is today a national doctoral research university and a pioneer in transdisciplinary, professional education. Home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, Jefferson is a preeminent academic institution delivering high-impact education in over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students across 10 colleges. The University’s academic offerings now include architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion, health, medicine, science, social science and textiles. Jefferson is redefining the higher education value proposition with an approach that is collaborative and active; increasingly global; integrated with industry; focused on research across disciplines to foster innovation and discovery; and technology-enhanced. Student-athletes compete as the Jefferson Rams in the NCAA Division II Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.

Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Brings Back Mobile App for 84th Annual Event

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net 

In preparation of the 84th  annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta,  the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee (DVROC) is pleased to announce the return of its Dad Vail Regatta mobile app.

The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by AmeriHealth, Coca-Cola and PECO will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13. The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will kick off a summer long celebration for the 100th year of the Cooper River Park.

Racing will begin at 8:00 am on Friday morning continuing throughout the day on Saturday concluding around 5:00 pm.

The Dad Vail Regatta App will be available on both IOS and Android devices. For Apple IOS users, the app can be found in the app store under Dad Vail Regatta.  For Andriod users, the app can be found in the Google Play Store by searching Dad Vail Regatta.

The mobile app allows you to access daily schedules, heat sheets, weather updates, race results and regatta information.

For those who do not have access through the mobile app, please log onto www.dadvail.org to access schedules, heat sheets, race results, weather updates and other pertinent regatta information.

About Jefferson 

Jefferson, located in the greater Philadelphia region and southern New Jersey, is reimagining health care and education to create unparalleled value. Jefferson is more than 42,000 people strong, dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients, preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st century careers, and conducting research leading to new discoveries on the basic science, clinical, population science and applied levels. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and four schools offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students.Jefferson Health  serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 18 hospitals (ten are Magnet® designated by the ANCC for nursing excellence) and over 50 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson is also home to Health Partners Plans, a not-for-profit managed healthcare organization serving more than 290,000 members in Southeastern Pennsylvania with a broad range of health coverage options through Health Partners Medicare, Health Partners (Medicaid) and KidzPartners (Children’s Health Insurance Program

About Thomas Jefferson University

 Thomas Jefferson University, founded in 1824 as the Jefferson Medical College, is today a national doctoral research university and a pioneer in transdisciplinary, professional education. Home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, Jefferson is a preeminent academic institution delivering high-impact education in over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students across 10 colleges. The University’s academic offerings now include architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion, health, medicine, science, social science and textiles. Jefferson is redefining the higher education value proposition with an approach that is collaborative and active; increasingly global; integrated with industry; focused on research across disciplines to foster innovation and discovery; and technology-enhanced. Student-athletes compete as the Jefferson Rams in the NCAA Division II Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.

Annual Art Poster Contest Highlights Off the River Talents at Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net 

Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Art Poster Contest Winners to Be Announced and Grants to City’s Summer Rowing Programs.

The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee (DVROC), organizers of the prestigious Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by AmeriHealth, PECO and Coca-Cola are pleased to announce the winners of the 21st annual Dad Vail Regatta Art Poster Contest staged this spring for budding young artists attending Philadelphia area private and parochial schools.

The 84th annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will be held on Friday, May 12 and Saturday, May 13 on the Cooper River in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey. The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will kick off a summer long celebration for the 100thyear of the Cooper River Park.

Jim Hanna, President of the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee said, “The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is far more than a regatta, offering students the opportunity to be recognized for their artistic ability and to be rewarded for their distinguished achievements by way of our annual Art Poster Contest.”

Hanna added, “I wish to extend a special expression of appreciation to Sister Lauretta Linsalata, IHM, of Archbishop Ryan High School for her support and assembling this contest for some very talented young artists.”

Jim Hanna, President of the Dad Vail Organizing Committee will announce the winners and the cash awards at a press conference on Friday May 12 at 9 AM. To be convened at the Camden County Boathouse amidst the first day of races for the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. Additionally, Dad Vail will continue to be a benefactor for both Philadelphia City Rowing and the Lloyd Hall Advisory Council Summer Rowing Program, continuing an over twenty-year history in support of empowering under-resourced Philadelphia City public school students to reach their highest potential through rowing.

State Senator Jim Beach, and Camden County Commissioners Jonathan Young and Jeff Nash will be offering their own brief remarks along with the following local mayors who will also be offering their own brief remarks: Cherry Hill Township Mayor Susan Shin Angulo, Collingswood Mayor Jim Maley, Haddon Township Mayor Randy Teague, and Pennsauken Township Mayor Vince Martinez.

The Art Poster contest, which challenges Philadelphia area high school students to best depict the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, North America’s largest and best-known collegiate regatta, has five categories of prizes: Grand Prize, First Place, Second Place, Third Place and Honorable Mention.

Members of the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee and the Office of Catholic Education comprised the judging committee.

The Winners of the 2023 Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Art Poster Contest are:

Grand Prize
Cindy Luu – Archbishop Ryan

First Place
Natalie Cheng – Archbishop Ryan

Second Place
Elizabeth Prushan – Archbishop Ryan

Third Place
Reese Gettes – Archbishop Ryan

Honorable Mention
Alicja Donagala – Archbishop Ryan

Mel Grace Calixtro – Archbishop Ryan

Julia Jermyn – Bishop Shanahan

Justin Chen – Archbishop Ryan

Jake Cahill – Archbishop Ryan

Megan Joy – Archbishop Ryan

Georgetown rowing’s love for Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta has far reaches

Contact:
Ed Levin
Publicity Director
610-246-5902
levins51@verizon.net 

If one wants to learn about Georgetown University’s affection for the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta – look no further than The Tombs, a local establishment near the Washington D.C. campus.

“The founder of the Tombs, Dick McCooey, (GU ’62 loved Georgetown Rowing so much that he dedicated a section of the restaurant to supporting the rowing team with memorabilia throughout the years,” said Georgetown University lightweight women’s rowing coach Abbey Wilkowski. “A big part of this section has oars on display for every Dad Vail winning Varsity 8+. My team would love nothing more than to add to their collection and to the legacy of Georgetown Rowing.”

Last year the Hoyas came close but could not overcome the quick start by Princeton and had to settle for second place. While winning the silver means a lot, adding a coveted gold medal would mean the world.

“It would mean a lot for our program to win the Varsity 8+ category because it would show the immense progress our team has made over the last couple of years,” said senior Bailyn Prichett and junior Cara Barkenbush. “At Dad Vail we face our toughest competition from the IRA (except Stanford). Winning a race against a field of IRA boats is something that our team has never done, and doing so at the Dad Vail would be even more meaningful to our program because of the importance of The Tombs to the Georgetown student body. We would be delighted to see our oar on the wall for the most competitive event at the Dad Vail and would make sure to celebrate at The Tombs if we were to win!”

Wilkowski added, “Winning gold this year would be very exciting for our program. We see many of our league competitors at this regatta and in this race, so winning would mean we are heading in the right direction with our speed and bode well for our championship in June.”

The Hoyas opened the spring season winning the Class of 2004 Cup at the Radcliffe Duel for the first time since 2018 and most recently earned a third-place finish at the Eastern Sprints.

“The Women’s Eastern Sprints a couple of weeks before Dad Vail I would say helps us prepare the most,” said Wilkowski. “At Sprints we will race the same crews that we will see at Dad Vails and our championship. Being able to learn from those races throughout the season is key to our success at the end of the year.”

With the Sprints now in the rearview mirror, the Hoyas turn their attention to the event that holds a special place in their heart.

“Our team loves racing at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta,” said Prichett and Barkenbush. “It is such a great opportunity to see some of our biggest competition in our league before our IRA Championship, but it is also exciting getting to test our speed against strong crews that we normally don’t compete against. Additionally, a lot of people on our team are from the Philly area, so the support from family and friends at this race is never lacking and makes it so special. The regatta staff does an excellent job of running the races and making it a fun time for everyone competing, which brings our team back every year.”

The 84th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by AmeriHealth will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13. The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will kick off a summer long celebration for the 100th year of the Cooper River.

About Jefferson 

Jefferson, located in the greater Philadelphia region and southern New Jersey, is reimagining health care and education to create unparalleled value. Jefferson is more than 42,000 people strong, dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients, preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st century careers, and conducting research leading to new discoveries on the basic science, clinical, population science and applied levels. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and four schools offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students.Jefferson Health  serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 18 hospitals (ten are Magnet® designated by the ANCC for nursing excellence) and over 50 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson is also home to Health Partners Plans, a not-for-profit managed healthcare organization serving more than 290,000 members in Southeastern Pennsylvania with a broad range of health coverage options through Health Partners Medicare, Health Partners (Medicaid) and KidzPartners (Children’s Health Insurance Program

About Thomas Jefferson University

 Thomas Jefferson University, founded in 1824 as the Jefferson Medical College, is today a national doctoral research university and a pioneer in transdisciplinary, professional education. Home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, Jefferson is a preeminent academic institution delivering high-impact education in over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students across 10 colleges. The University’s academic offerings now include architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion, health, medicine, science, social science and textiles. Jefferson is redefining the higher education value proposition with an approach that is collaborative and active; increasingly global; integrated with industry; focused on research across disciplines to foster innovation and discovery; and technology-enhanced. Student-athletes compete as the Jefferson Rams in the NCAA Division II Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.

Five Tribes Cinema Productions to Provide Live Stream Coverage

For Immediate Release
Contact: Ed Levin
Publicity Director
Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta
610-246-5902 (Cell phone) levins51@verizon.net

The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee, host of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by AmeriHealth, PECO and Coca-Cola is pleased to announce Five Tribes Cinema Productions will provide live streaming coverage of the races beginning on Friday, May 12 at 7:00 am continuing through the conclusion of racing on Saturday May 13.

To follow all the action, go to www.dadvail.org and click on the live stream link.

“The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee is pleased to have Five Tribes Cinema Productions provide live stream coverage for the second consecutive year. Their rowing background accompanied by their experience in the production field will give collegiate rowers competing in the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta the benefit of worldwide coverage through live streaming to family, friends, and rowing fans,” said Jim Hanna, President of the Dad Vail Organizing Committee.

“Five Tribes Cinema Productions is proud to be renewing its partnership with the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta,” said Colin Stewart, CEO of Five Tribes Cinema Productions. “Our commitment to bringing the best coverage to this time-honored regatta has not waivered. Together, with the help of the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee our team is ready to produce the best program possible. We look forward to covering two days of great racing.

There will be three manned ground cameras, one permanent finish line camera and an announcer camera. At least one drone will be provided for ariel coverage of every race and select races will have two drones.  Accomplished rower and Dad Vail Board Member Brad Negaard along with Joe Leonard, a local Philadelphia rower and Aquil Abdullah will handle the announcing and commentary throughout both days of live stream coverage.

The 84th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by AmeriHealth will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13. The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta will kick off a summer long celebration for the 100th year of the Cooper River.

 

About Jefferson 

Jefferson, located in the greater Philadelphia region and southern New Jersey, is reimagining health care and education to create unparalleled value. Jefferson is more than 42,000 people strong, dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients, preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st century careers, and conducting research leading to new discoveries on the basic science, clinical, population science and applied levels. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and four schools offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students.Jefferson Health  serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 18 hospitals (ten are Magnet® designated by the ANCC for nursing excellence) and over 50 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson is also home to Health Partners Plans, a not-for-profit managed healthcare organization serving more than 290,000 members in Southeastern Pennsylvania with a broad range of health coverage options through Health Partners Medicare, Health Partners (Medicaid) and KidzPartners (Children’s Health Insurance Program

About Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University, founded in 1824 as the Jefferson Medical College, is today a national doctoral research university and a pioneer in transdisciplinary, professional education. Home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, Jefferson is a preeminent academic institution delivering high-impact education in over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to 8,400 students across 10 colleges. The University’s academic offerings now include architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion, health, medicine, science, social science and textiles. Jefferson is redefining the higher education value proposition with an approach that is collaborative and active; increasingly global; integrated with industry; focused on research across disciplines to foster innovation and discovery; and technology-enhanced. Student-athletes compete as the Jefferson Rams in the NCAA Division II Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.

Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Holds A Special Place For United Sates Merchant Marine Academy

For Immediate Release
Contact: Ed Levin
Publicity Director
Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta
610-246-5902 (Cell phone) levins51@verizon.net

When the United States Merchant Marine Academy rowing team hits the water every spring, they immediately turn their focus to preparing for the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta.

“The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is the highlight of our competitive year,” said Head Coach Derek Hartwick. “Each year we focus our efforts on achieving our best performance on the second weekend of May. Despite the relatively small size of our Academy; 947 total students and only 800 students on campus at any one time, we always strive to put forward our best crews for the event. In recent years, we have managed to place many crews in the Grand finals and medals in each of the last two years.”

With the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta just a little over five weeks away, the Merchant Marine crew is looking forward to the continuing their recent success at the Dad Vail highlighted by a gold medal in the Men’s Varsity Pair without coxswain in last year’s event.

“It is very meaningful whenever one of our crews make it onto the podium and especially when they capture a Gold,” said Hartwick. “As a coach, I feel that the experience of winning a medal adds meaning and perspective to the hard work and dedication that the athletes have made during their college years. In 2022, two of our seniors (Cameron Rothley ‘22 and William Roberts ’22) completed an undefeated season and captured the Negaard Cup at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta.”

While each crew team faces their own challenges, what Coach Derek Hartwick encounters is very unique. During the spring season, the junior class is out at sea working on commercial and naval vessels while the senior class is studying for their Coast Guard license while going to class and practice to lead the varsity rowing team to a successful campaign.

Last season, Rothley and Roberts provided that leadership and were rewarded with a coveted Dad Vail gold medal.

This season, Midshipman Peyson Pearce 3/C (3rd classman) has accepted the leadership role this spring and will be the coxswain in the Man’s Varsity Four boat.

“Watching Rothley and Roberts last year, one thing I noticed was their consistency and positive attitude towards practice,” said Pearce, who himself will be balancing practice and studying to complete his second year at the Academy. “They showed up every day, rain or shine. Even when they had their coast guard license to study for at the end of senior year, they still made it their priority to show up and put in the work for their boat. Watching them show up, even when they could have used multiple excuses to miss practice, motivated me to be like them. They would not just show up because they had to or because they were asked, but because they wanted to be the best, and to be the best takes dedication and consistency. They came to spring practice with the team, even when they could have stayed home to prioritize their academic careers over their athletic careers. They would make it a point to be as happy as can be, which helped lift team spirits, especially when the 0430 (4:30 am) wake ups were brutal.”

Although the Merchant Marine Academy may not be large in numbers due to varying commitments outside of crew, they make up for that with the dedication and hard work of the rowers that are able to fit in the commitment and maintain the Academy’s tradition of attending an event that has been the highlight of their schedule since 1970.

The 84th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, most recently presented by Independence Blue Cross, PECO and Coca Cola will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 12, 2023, and Saturday, May 13, 2023 .