Welcome to the Howard M Smith Diamond State Masters Regatta, planned for Sunday, July 26th, 2009. The original Diamond State Masters Regatta was co-founded in 1991 by John Schoonover and Howard Smith. Since it’s humble inception, the Regatta has matured into one of the premier national events for master rowers. in 1999, Howard’s name was added posthumously to recognize his extraordinary contribution to the sport of rowing in several capacities: rower, coach, official, and spokesman.

Referees at 2008 DSM.

Sponsored by the Wilmington Rowing Center, founded in 1984, Diamond States is held on tranquil Noxontown pond on the campus of St. Andrew’s School, the venue of hundreds of schoolboy regattas since 1930. In fact, Director John Schoonover coxed for St. Andrew’s in 1959 and 1960. Many other alumni-ae now return annually to join the almost 1,300 masters rowers who compete in nearly 100 heats. The buoyed course measures 1,070 meters, with the finish line just off Rodney Point. Live video of the starting line provides spectators with a unique, dramatic, and often inaccessible view of every race.

DSM Committee 2009

Planning for the DSMR is executed throughout the year by the seventeen member committee, supported by many WRC volunteers and supporters, as well as dedicated US Rowing referees, St. Andrew’s School, and Boy Scout Troop 39 from Townsend, De. The Del Rose restaurant supplies refreshments. Admission is free and parking is conveniently near the banks of the Pond. There is no rain date. The schedule of events has been significantly revamped from the last two years in an effort to ensure that those who suffered cancellations during those years have the best possible chance of rowing.

New Changes:

• Please review the NEW changes to the schedule right here! It has been adjusted in 2009 so please check this carefully before registering!
• Rowers will enjoy the convenience of a VIP Comfort unit containing men's and women's stalls and sinks, flushing toilets, hardwood floors, air conditioned, and, last but not least, music, preferably the 50's!
• New Connect-a-Docks!