From May 8 to 10, Split will once again be the center of elite rowing, academic gatherings, and rich traditions. The International Rowing Regatta Sveti Duje will take place on the rowing course in Spinut and along Split's Riva, celebrating over two decades of successfully uniting sport, education, and international collaboration.
This year's regatta promises an impressive lineup, with 30 teams from England, Germany, Italy, Poland, Norway, and other countries participating. Among them are prestigious names like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College, as noted by Luka Grubor, a member of the organizing committee and Olympic champion. "What particularly excites me as a rower and organizer is the exceptional quality of this year's teams, especially the student teams. Traditionally, the world's best rowers come in the form of alumni and legends, but this year we have top names in the women's competition, such as Esther Briz Zamorano from Spain and Heidi Long, both active members of their national teams."
Grubor added, "Oxford and Cambridge are coming in full force, especially after Oxford won the Boat Race after a ten-year hiatus, so we can expect a fierce rematch. Alongside a new generation of legends, the presence of Croatian representatives like Damir Martin on the Riva further cements the event's role as a meeting place for the present and future of rowing."
The Regatta as a Nexus of Sport, Education, and Economy
Director Toni Gamulin highlighted the broader significance of the Regatta, noting that it has long transcended the boundaries of a mere sporting event. It serves as a platform that connects sport, education, and the economy, contributing to the development of dual-career systems for athletes.
"First and foremost, I would like to thank our sponsors, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, the City of Split, and the Split-Dalmatia County, as well as our core institutions, the University of Split, the Split and Croatian Academic Sports Union, and HVK Gusar."
"Our event has evolved over the years into an internationally recognized event that generates both tourism and economic impact, but most importantly, it leaves a lasting legacy in terms of expertise. This expertise has been instrumental in major projects like the World and European Championships at Spaladium Arena and will be crucial in organizing the European University Games in 2028."
Gamulin concluded, "Our goal is to provide athletes with a platform for educational and sporting development, which will ultimately lead to better results and a sustainable sports system in Split, and I am confident that this year's regatta will be a significant step towards achieving all our goals."
Professor Igor Jerković, Vice-Rector for Science and Quality at the University of Split, emphasized the university's recognition not only for its academic excellence but also for the sporting achievements of its students. "We are proud to host students from renowned European universities for many years, and the Regatta Sveti Duje underscores the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and student standards, particularly in the context of the upcoming European University Games. Beyond the sporting aspect, it has a strong academic and international significance, bringing together students, professors, and alumni, and opening up long-term cooperation between universities."
Support from the City and County
The event has received strong support from representatives of the City and County. Mayor Igor Maretić, responsible for sports and youth in Split, emphasized the city's unwavering support for the regatta. "This is an excellent event that sends positive energy, combining sport and education and complementing the Sudamje program. As the European University Games approach, we are receiving constant support for everything we have prepared and envisioned, especially the infrastructural legacy, such as the renovation of Spaladium Arena, athletic infrastructure at Brodarica, and the Gripe sports center, all of which benefit all citizens."
Zeljko Primorac, Head of the Culture and Sports Department of the Split-Dalmatia County, highlighted the long-term support for the Regatta and its important role in promoting Split and Croatia internationally. "In this venue of HVK Gusar, the history of Croatian rowing is written, and at the Regatta Sveti Duje, the history of student rowing in Croatia is written. Participants from more than 15 countries across three continents over the years speak to the importance of this event and how student sports should be better represented in the media, decisions, and plans in Croatia. We will always be partners in such projects."
Races in Spinut and on the Riva
The competitive part of the program starts on Saturday, May 9, in Spinut, while the following day, Split's Riva will once again become the stage for one of the most attractive moments of the regatta, the Legends Race. In a short and dynamic race over 220 meters, former Olympians, world champions, and rowing legends will showcase their strength, providing spectators with a unique sporting spectacle in the heart of the city.
A special moment on the Riva, just before the first race, will be the blessing of the boat purchased last year with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, as part of the Regatta's legacy. Ivica Botica, President of HVK Gusar and a member of the organizing committee, wished good luck to all participants: "The quality and interest of rowers in competing in Split give us a sense of pride but also responsibility as organizers. We are in the trophy hall of one of the most successful rowing clubs in the world, history literally surrounds us, and HVK Gusar has always been a springboard for athletes to further develop, not just in sports but in life. I wish all our guests feel at home and leave Split with only positive memories and energy."
The ceremonial opening of the event will take place on May 8 in Diocletian's Basement, the location changed due to weather conditions, symbolically starting another edition of an event that annually reaffirms its status as one of the most important sporting and social gatherings in Split.
