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Aberdeen Dad Vail celebrating 75th anniversary

Organizers expect a big turnout for the 2-day event, which is the largest intercollegiate rowing competition in North America.

THE ABERDEEN Dad Vail Regatta is a staple in Philadelphia.

The event brings schools from all over the country to the Schuylkill River in what is the largest intercollegiate rowing competition in North America.

This year's event, which will be held tomorrow and Saturday, will be even more special as it's the Regatta's 75th anniversary.

The first race took place in 1934, with 4 years being skipped as a result of World War II. The race has been annually held in Philadelphia since 1953 and features many of the top colleges in the city, including Temple, which has accumulated the most men's varsity eight titles with 20.

The 1934 event featured only three colleges: Marietta, Rutgers and Manhattan. Race organizers expect to attract more than the record 127 schools that competed last year. in last year.

Among those returning is Michigan, which is looking to win its third straight men's heavyweight eight title. And, Mercyhurst is looking for four in row in the men's lightweight eight.

As expected, security will be heightened in light of the recent bombings at the Boston Marathon.

A statement on dadvail.org, the event's website reads: "Unattended bags - including but not limited to backpacks, handbags, packages, equipment bags, shopping bags, coolers, and musical instrument cases - may be inspected and subject to confiscation by designated security personnel.

The event is free and runs from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and will feature approximately 150 races on the 2,000-meter course.

The best place to watch is anywhere near the grandstand, which is about 2 miles north of Boat House Row.

Those taking public transportation can catch a shuttle to the grandstand on Pennsylvania Avenue, near the Art Museum. Those driving can should enter Kelly Drive from either the north or south and follow signs for parking. Shuttle will also be available to take fans from the parking areas to the course.