The 2011 Oklahoma Regatta Festival brought athletes from around the world and spectators from across the country as more than 50,000 people came to the Oklahoma River for the four-day event Sept. 29 to Oct. 2.
Perfect fall weather with daytime temperatures in the 80s and low winds ensured ideal conditions for more than 1,500 competitors.
The USA Rowing World Challenge showcased some of the fastest crews in the world as elite athletes from Germany, Italy, and Canada competed against Team USA in men's and women's pairs, doubles, singles and quads. This was the first trip to America for several of these international rowers, who've been impressed by the training facilities on the Oklahoma River.
Top collegiate crews from across the country competed in the OCU Head of the Oklahoma regatta with the University of California - Berkeley taking first in the Men's Collegiate 8+ and winning the Norick Cup for the second year in a row. Stanford University also repeated as the Women's Collegiate 8+ champions taking the Ackerman Cup. Stanford was upset by the University of Oklahoma Women's 8+ who took first in the OGE 500m NightSprints.
OKC RIVERSPORT won the most medals over the weekend with 20 gold, 16 silver and 14 bronze earned among their junior, pre-elite and masters crews. Oklahoma City University was the top collegiate finisher earning 10 gold, 9 silver and 6 bronze.
While racing drew fans to the river banks, the Family Festival attracted large crowds to the popular zip line, rock climbing wall, inflatables and kayak excursions. Great restaurant food, a vendor area, live entertainment and a beer and wine garden completed the festival. More than 500 volunteers assisted with the event over the four days.