For those of you who don’t know, the Regatta is an IUPUI event, run by IUPUI and the Student Organization for Alumni Relations (SOAR). During the Regatta, teams of up to eight students/faculty/alumni compete in a half-mile canoe race on the canal. The event is primarily run by students who plan both the day of and the week prior. The Regatta is so much more than a canoe race; it’s a tradition that raises money for student scholarships. There’s something for everyone and the memories from that day will last forever.

Food

We’re in college. That means that we’re always hungry. ALWAYS. At the Regatta, there is unlimited food. Some of it is free, some of it isn’t. Either way, whatever you want will be served. Different food trucks park on the 10th Street bridge, while other restaurants set up tents and serve food that way. If you want to explore the free options, walk around the tents and visit different schools and organizations. A lot of the time, groups will hand out free snacks throughout the day to keep you going. (Free food and a mini involvement fair rolled into one.)

Entertainment

Throughout the day, there are live bands playing all sorts of music. My Yellow Rickshaw is performing for the sixth year in a row. If you don’t want to race, at least come watch, listen to music and have a good time. While walking up and down the canal, you are entertained in numerous ways. Last year, I stumbled upon a mini dance battle by the canal and it was epic. If dancing and singing aren’t your thing, come see the cute dogs entered in the dog costume contest. People are insanely creative and dogs are cute. If all else fails, come people-watch. There’s a team theme contest and people go all out. Watching people in funny costumes fall out of canoes is a great show, I promise.

Ways to get involved

Unfortunately, the team spots for the race are full. However, you don’t have to be in the race to have a good time. Here’s how you can participate.

1. Come cheer on your friends who are in the race.

2. Volunteer and get a free T-shirt.

3. Attend the events during Regatta Week. Free s’mores on Monday, canoes in the Natatorium pool on Tuesday and PP2 on Wednesday?! How could you not come?

Regatta Week Schedule 2015

9/14 S’mores ‘N Oars 6:30pm-8:30pm @ Campus Recreation Courts

9/15 Natatorium Battleships 7:30pm-10pm @ Natatorium Auxiliary Pool

9/16 Obstacle Course 10am-2pm @Taylor Courtyard

Blood Drive 10am-3pm @ Taylor Courtyard

“Pitch Perfect 2” Movie Night 7pm @Taylor Courtyard

9/17 Blood Drive 10am-3pm @ Taylor Courtyard

Volleyball Tournament 4pm @ Campus Recreation Courts

9/18 Rungatta 5K 6pm @ White River State Park

Hoodie Allen Concert 7pm @ Carrol Stadium

9/19 REGATTA 10am @ Downtown Indy Canal at 10^th St

I hope to see you all at the Regatta festivities.

“May the oars be ever in your favor.”