Varese boat park chat

The atmosphere is vibrant with rowers ages 27 to 94 filling every corner. Athletes from all over the world prepare for their races, rig their boats, talk with one another and celebrate rowing and racing. Dotted in between the competitors in their all in ones are the hundreds of local volunteers, mostly from nearby secondary schools, dressed smartly in white trousers and shirts, always on hand to help.

“The venue is fantastic. The volunteers look so stylish and have been so lovely. It really is a lovely atmosphere,” said Anne Lockwood, a competitor in the women’s single sculls. Athletes around the venue have boasted about the young volunteers. The ‘A’ coxed four from Upper Thames Rowing Club called them, “the most helpful volunteers yet.”

The volunteers compliment the already beautiful venue on the shores of Lago di Varese. The coxswain from the Upper Thames coxed four said that “the only problem with the scenery is that it’s too beautiful, it’s distracting.” Despite distraction, he managed to steer his boat to victory. “We rowed with a broken oarlock,” he said. “The official was trying to fix it at the start and everyone on the water was watching because we delayed the racing for 15 minutes. When he fixed it, everyone cheered. It was so embarrassing.” The crew, however, was smiling from ear to ear after their victory.

It is difficult to find athletes who are not smiling. Lockwood grinned as she said, “My race was fantastic. My start was fantastic, I rowed well and I came in last.” She seemed unconcerned with the result as she rows for the love of the sport and the fitness. Lockwood first started rowing in 1969, but only for a few months. Twelve years ago she picked up her oars once again and has participated in the World Rowing Masters Regatta ever since.  

Return to rowing after many years is a common theme here. Local rower Paolo Pollini from the Canottieri Gavirate said, “it’s like riding a bike, except now I am out of shape.” Pollini’s wife and children crowded around him. “I started rowing again because it’s a nice, good sport and my whole family is here to watch. It couldn’t be any better.”

Races will continue through 8 September at the World Rowing Masters Regatta, finishing with the mixed event racing.

For results please  click here.