Volkswagen wins women’s title, Fine Stokes takes men’s championship at Royal St. John’s Regatta

News, Sports August 5th, 2026

It was an incredible finish to the 2026 Royal St. John’s regatta in St. John’s. Volkswagen captured its third straight women’s title, winning the Kim Stirling Memorial Trophy.

Volkswagen crossed the finish line in a time of 5 minutes and 11 seconds to win the title, finishing about five seconds faster than their closest competitor, Smith Stockley. 

On the men’s side, Fine Strokes Plaster and Painting captured the long course title. The crew, led by 13-time champion James Cadigan, stopped the clock at a time of 9 minutes and 22 seconds. Capital Home Hardware, who had won back-to-back championships heading into this year, finished second with a time of 9:27.

It was a busy day at Quidi Vidi Lake with almost 70 teams competing in 20 races.

The Royal St. John’s Regatta is steeped in tradition, dating back to 1818. Tens of thousands of people flock to Quidi Vidi Lake to enjoy a day at the races.

NTV’s Mark Dwyer will have a full recap of the races tomorrow on the NTV Evening Newshour.

The final times are as follows:

Stirling Communications International Women’s Championship

1. Volkswagen – 5:11.68

2. Smith Stockley – 5.16.94

3. All Star Rebar – 5:25.41

4. Fine Strokes Plaster & Painting – 5:26.57

5. Gitten’s, Escott, Nwokedi & Associates – 5:43.16

East Coast Kia Men’s Championship

1. Fine Strokes Plaster & Painting – 9:22.22

2. Capital Home Hardware – 9:29.01

3. Newfoundland Power – 10:44.62

4. Tacora Resources – 11:02.85

* EMCO HVAC – 10:38.29 (disqualified)