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Philly's Largest Regatta Kicks Off On Schuylkill River

By Mike Dougherty

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- More than 30,000 spectators will line the banks of the river this weekend for the 45th annual Head of the Schuylkill Regatta.

This is the biggest regatta in Philadelphia. It's also different from the rest because at 2.5 miles, it is longer than most other races. It's also a time trial, a race against the clock.

There are more than 7,000 competitors from near and far. One of them is Haverford college sophomore Nick Barile.

"It's one of the most beautiful regattas I've ever attended," says Barile. "The energy is really palpable on the scene. It's really is a highlight, I think, of every rower's career to come out here."

Jean Mack is one of more than 300 volunteers who help make this two-day event possible.

"It's great fun. You get to meet a lot of great people of all ages. I love Philadelphia," says Mack. "I love the sport of rowing, and it was a way to get more involved with the community."

Organizers say it's an all-inclusive regatta with competitors ranging in age from 13-83. There are events for Olympians as well as rowers with disabilities.

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