Venetians first organized a rowing race in the thirteenth century and they've been doing it ever since. Regata Storica, held since 1825, marks the annual trial of strenght and skill fot the city's gondoliers and other expert rowers.

On the first Sunday of September every year, thousands of Venetians turn out to do what the Venetians do best - indulge in a spectacular display of pageantry and race their gondolas.

The competitive regattas follow the historical parade, with categories based on age group and type of boat. The races get underway with the under-14s, known as the "maciarele".
The youngsters in their two-oared "pupparini" boats are followed by the ladies' two-oared "mascarete" boat race, the "bisse" of Lake Garda, the six-oared "caorline" and, last but not least, the rowing champions in their two- oared "gondolini".