There were no records set at the Royal St. John’s Regatta yesterday in the elite categories despite ideal pond conditions. The event was jam-packed with what many observers say was one of the largest crowds ever.

The Fine Strokes Plaster and Painting Crew are champions for the fourth straight year, while Hyflodaulics Limited crew took home their very first Royal St. John’s Regatta Championship.

Belfor had a shot at the VOCM Triple Crown of Rowing after wins in Placentia and Harbour Grace, but could not cash in as Fine Strokes made it four St. John’s Regatta wins in a row.

Fine Strokes had a strong 17-second lead versus second place, reaching the finish line with a time of 9:04.71, Belfor claimed second place with a time of 9:21.65.

Hyflodraulics Breaks an Oar, Still Finishes First

Meanwhile, it wasn’t smooth sailing in the Hyflodraulics’ victory. The crew broke an oar in the final stretches of the race, but still held strong to take their victory.

They reached the finish line with a time of 5:02.23. The Cahill Group came in second with a time of 5:06.24.

Theresa Butler of Hyflodraulics says they knew this was their year. Butler says it was all on the line since they started training in October. She says it’s an amazing feeling and everything they practiced for and hoped for.

Pictures and video by Earl Noble