The winning crew, led by rower Kate Wadden, described the victory as a tribute to their former head coach, Mike Power, who had guided the team in previous seasons. Wadden, part of the team’s two-seat, said thoughts of Power helped sustain the rowers through the final stretch of the race.
The Regatta, held in St. John’s, featured the annual competition where rowing teams from the area compete for the renowned championship. The Volkswagen St. John’s women’s squad earned the top spot in the 208th championship race, underscoring a season of strong performances and teamwork.
Connie Duffett, a member of the crew, joined Wadden in reflecting on the impact of Power’s coaching philosophy, noting that his approach emphasized resilience and precision on the water. Duffett and Wadden both indicated that the coach’s legacy lived on in how the team conducted itself during the race, especially in the late stages when endurance becomes critical.
Officials and spectators watched as the Volkswagen St. John’s team maintained a steady pace, navigating the ship’s lanes with coordinated strokes. The team’s victory adds to the long history of competition at the Regatta, one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most storied sporting events.
Details on margins of victory or the order of finish for other crews were not provided in the brief summary available, but the win marked a significant moment for the program and its athletes, who dedicated their performance to Power’s memory.
The 2026 Regatta continues to be a commemorative event for participants who combine athletic achievement with personal tribute, and the women’s championship result will be remembered as a testament to leadership, teamwork, and perseverance.
