Review: Regiowedstrijd Saturday, September 12th, 2026, at RZV De Amstel

Saturday September 12th might have been like any other cloudy and windy September Saturday for most Amsterdammers, but not for the rowing enthusiasts taking part in the 4th regional rowing regatta of the season, held at RZV De Amstel. This competion was the last one before the October final at the Bosbaan. This was the second year I have taken part in the regional competition as a Willem3 member, but the first time I raced at the club De Amstel.

This year, my team (SLAGroom) has been racing a 4x+ boat for the first time, and I immediately felt the trepidation and buzz of the race as soon as I got into De Amstel clubhouse and met both fellow Willem3 members and some of the rowers we’d race against soon after.
Everyone there had trained for the race, was probably a bit nervous, wanted to do well, but, most importantly, wanted to have a fun afternoon.

The race distance was 800 meters along the Noorder Amstelkanaal, the longest of the whole season, with a flying start under the Isaac Israëlsbrug near the Hilton Hotel and a finish right next to De Amstel’s clubhouse.
Friends of WIII came to the bridge during the race to cheer on the teams and take photos and videos.

Well done to all the 7 WIII teams who took part, and especially to C4* Mix team FAAM and C2* Dames team Double Trouble for absolutely crushing it and bringing home some sweet, sweet points!

With the Amstel race behind us, all the teams have just over a month left to continue training and give it their all for the final on October 17th at the Bosbaan. Regardless of which teams will raise the regional competition trophies at the end of the season, I’m sure that everyone who took part in this year’s regional competitions will cherish the memories, friendships and successes that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.

Simone Delli Compagni