Greater New Bedford Summerfest 2010
- An International Folk Music and Arts Festival -
WHALEBOAT RACES
There is a long tradition of whaleboat racing in New Bedford harbor. Back in the 1800's, whaling ship captains would use some "port time" in New Bedford harbor to train whaleboat rowing crews, frequently planning races with crews from other ships. Captains and boat owners encouraged racing, since a fit and coordinated crew had a much better chance of catching the whale. The New Bedford Independence Day Whaleboat Race was the culminating event. Over 150 years later, the tradition continues with more than 25 teams competing during Greater New Bedford Summerfest to be New Bedford's whaleboat champions. Teams of six crewmembers will race in Beetle whaleboat replicas owned by the Whaling City Rowing, the race organizer.
For more details contact the Whaling City Rowing at 508-517-1251, by email at idwr@whalingcityrowing.org or visit their website at http://www.whalingcityrowing.org
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