By Jim Melwert

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The annual Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta is underway on the Schuylkill River. Organizers say this is the biggest Dad Vail in history, with more than 3,800 competitors.

Colin Norton, originally from Ocean City, New Jersey is competing with the University of Tampa. He says it’s great to be back in the area for the competition.

“You know, I’ve never been more awake at 5 o’ clock in the morning. I’m just ready to race.”

Colleges and universities from all over North America are participating, 127 in all — some big, some small.

Charlotte Foote is with one of the small crews: Wheaton College in Illinois. She says it’s an incredible experience for them to be here at the Dad Vail.

“It’s the biggest collegiate race, and I think that means a lot to us. That we can go out there and compete and hopefully do well against a lot of other bigger schools.”

And the weather is cooperating. It’s a gorgeous start to the day on the banks of the Schuylkill.