While there are various projects aiming to join central and eastern European countries, especially those in the Danube region, in trade and culture, transgressive sporting events are yet to become commonplace.
In 2015 the three capitals Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna are to be joined in a newly initiated Eights’ Cup. The CAPITAL CUP consists of a set of recently introduced long distance eights’ races and promotes networking among rowers from the participating nations.
The project finds great support among the respective national rowing associations, as can be seen in this quote by Horst Nussbaumer, president of the ÖRV (Austrian Rowing Association): “We support all initiatives that aim to increase the appeal of rowing. Especially Eights’ races lend themselves to media coverage to improve the image of rowing and to attract crowds. The concept of bringing these three neighbouring countries closer together with a series of races seems very appealing, and with this cup, we are hoping to establish a new tradition.”
The races are open to male, female and mixed crews in sweep oar eights as well as octuple sculls- a handicap system ensures a level playing field and facilitates close calls.
The attractive racecourses take rowers right through the heart of each of the three participating capitals.
A challenge cup, the CAPITAL CUP, is awarded to the fastest crew, taking into account all three regattas. A minimum of four crew have to participate in three out of four races.
RACES for 2015/2016
Eights of Sava, Zagreb – November 5th 2016
Distance 3.800m, upstream on the Sava finish at HAVK Mladost
Budapest Cup Regatta, Budapest – April 1st 2017
Distance 4.500m, downstream Danube, finish at Margarete-island
Wienerachter, Vienna – May 13th 2017
Distance 6.000m, downstream Donaukanal, finish in the centre near the observatory “Urania”
The hosting clubs “Danubis National Boating Club”, “HAVK Mladost” and “Wiener Ruderclub Pirat” are looking forward to exciting competitions!
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