Regatta revellers
The 199th annual Royal St. John’s Regatta draws thousands to Quidi Vidi Lake
Lakeside extravaganza draws crowds despite early morning rain
The early morning rain didn’t stop the crowds from flocking at the 199th annual Royal St. John’s Regatta.
With races, food, games, gambling and music, there really is something for everybody to enjoy.
Many families, young and old, have made it a tradition to come down and spend the day.
“This is the first year we haven’t been here for the first race,” said Linda Connors. “And that’s only because of the weather.”
Linda and Dave Connors told The Telegram that they make sure they get down to the Regatta every year.
When they saw the rain this morning, they put on their rain boots and packed an umbrella.
“Our favourite part is definitely watching the races,” said Dave. “We play the games of chance as well, but nothing beats the races.”
While some head down to the Regatta to spend their money, others spend their day making money.
The Boogie Babes, Lesley Dove Smith and Claire Hewlett, have both attended the regatta for most of their lives. This year, instead of relaxing and playing games, they were performing.
The pair entertained regatta goers with their two-part harmony performance, singing songs ranging from current tunes, to traditional Newfoundland songs.
“Usually we’re on the other side of the pond,” Hewlett joked as she motioned towards the game area. “This is a great way to get our name out there, and of course, tips are welcome.”
Rosalind Searle also spent her day entertaining the crowds of the regatta, but not wirth songs. Searle offered psychic readings.
“I’ve been doing psychic work since I was 16 years old, and now I am 71,” said Searle. “I just love it. I get high off of seeing people’s reactions to what I say.”
Searle told The Telegram that it has only been recently that she started reading for such large crowds.
“Just a few minutes ago a lady came in, and she couldn’t believe what I told her about herself,” said Searle. “But she picked the cards, I just read them.”
Bobby Gamba and Marek Nakonieczny were busy directing the regatta crowds as they entered and exited the Feildian Grounds.
The grounds were made into a parking area for the day, and all profits went towards supporting the Feildians Challenge Cup soccer team.
The boys say this fundraiser has been going on for as long as they can remember. It is their only fundraiser for the year.
“We live and die by Regatta Day parking,” laughed Nakonieczny.