1974

The community of Renforth combined a little sun and a lot of water Saturday, and topped with a large turnout of spectators and participants, came up with a successful Renforth Regatta.

When Regatta Day dawned the Kennebecasis River was shrouded in fog, but by the time the events were in full swing later in the day the mists had disappeared and the sun was shining.

And whether cheering on the victors of the rowing competitions or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, the crowd at the Renforth Wharf took full advantage of the bright afternoon skies. A spokesman for the regatta said that some 1000 people had been on hand for the day's events.

Highlighting the rowing activities in the morning was a competition between eight-member teams from the three rowing clubs that took part. The North Star team from Dartmouth, N.S., defeated the Kennebecasis and Mic Mac rowing crews in an impressive two-section elimination competition.

According to Dr. C. H. Bonnycastle, chairman of the 1974 regatta, this event was a spectacle that had not taken place for over one hundred years. "They had eight-member teams in the competition of 1871 and we were pleased to have such racing this year," he noted.

The Kennebecasis Rowing and Canoe Club were this year's winners of the James F. Renforth Trophy in the 200-metre, light straight four event defeating the two Dartmouth. N.S. teams.

Athletic events for local participants were held in swimming, sailing and canoeing. In ‘balance battles’, the canoe-tilting and log-rolling competitions drew much interest from participants and on-lookers alike.

The steerburger barbeque at its serving location outside the Community Club provided a hearty, satisfying "bite" while inside, the biergarten offered a spirited thirst-quenching break.

Following the afternoon's full schedule of sports events, ribbons and trophies were presented to the winners on the dais at the wharf.

"We're quite pleased with the turnout for the regatta," said Dr. Bonnycastle. Noting that the rowing events must be held when there is calm water he said many people had missed the morning's activities. "But it looks as if those who are here now are taking advantage of all the regatta activities." Dr. Bonnycastle added.

A Regatta Ball at the Renforth Community Club Saturday evening wound up the program.