Ukrainian Newcomers Make Waves at Royal St. John’s Regatta
So, here’s a heartwarming and inspiring story out of Newfoundland that’s really making waves — quite literally. This year’s Royal St. John’s Regatta, one of the oldest organized sporting events in North America, is getting a fresh infusion of spirit and resilience, thanks to a team of six Ukrainian newcomers who are set to compete in the iconic boat race.
Now, the Regatta is a huge tradition in St. John’s — it dates all the way back to the early 1800s — and it’s not just about the race itself. It’s a full-day celebration that brings the entire community together, with food, music, games, and that unique holiday status where everyone kind of waits to see if it’ll actually go ahead, depending on the weather. It’s a big deal.
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And this year, it’s going to be even more meaningful for one particular team — a group of Ukrainian immigrants who’ve recently settled in Newfoundland. These rowers, most of whom had never even seen a fixed-seat rowing boat before arriving in Canada, have taken on the challenge of mastering this very specific and very traditional style of rowing. Unlike the sliding-seat style that many rowers around the world train in, the boats at the Regatta use fixed seats — meaning your technique has to adapt entirely.
But despite the steep learning curve, this team has embraced it with enthusiasm, dedication, and determination. They've been training hard, adjusting to the rhythm of the water, and picking up the skills needed to compete — all while adjusting to life in a new country, a new language, and an entirely different culture. And yet, they’re doing it. Not just as athletes, but as symbols of hope, resilience, and community spirit.
What’s so powerful here is that this isn’t just a sports story. It’s a human story. It shows how traditions can evolve and grow, how communities can welcome newcomers, and how shared experiences — like training for a race — can build unexpected bridges. The fact that these Ukrainian rowers are being embraced by the Regatta community says a lot about Newfoundland hospitality, and even more about the strength and spirit of those who’ve had to rebuild their lives far from home.
So when those boats hit the water on Regatta Day, there’ll be more than just competition at stake. There’ll be pride, unity, and a strong message that new beginnings can happen in the most traditional of places — and sometimes, all it takes is a paddle and a team willing to try.
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