Varsity (rowing regatta)

The Varsity is a rowing regatta on the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal in Houten, Netherlands each Spring. The Varsity is the oldest and most prestigious student rowing regatta in the Netherlands. The Varsity is one of the few rowing races that is exclusive to students and a fever-pitch rivalry exists between participants. Traditional elements are combined with contemporary rowing races. For instance, while rowing crews defend the honour of the club on the water, spectators on the dike are traditionally brawling with equal fanaticism. The main event is the Oude Vier (Varsity Four, literally 'Old Four') which is rowed in a 4+ over a distance of 3 km. All other events row the standard 2 km distance in common race rowing classes such as the 4+, 4-, 2- and single scull. Some races are in traditional clinker-built boats. The Varsity has influenced many of the traditions in student rowing in the Netherlands.