The Griffith University Paradise Regatta

In a massive endorsement of the Griffith University Paradise Regatta concept Australia's oldest and arguably most professionally run rowing club Sydney University have locked in their attendance at the Griffith University Paradise Regatta.

"The chance to showcase the quality of our team in front of a national TV audience was just too big to miss" SUBC Head Coach Phil Bourguignon said.

Sydney Uni have a formidable record in Australian University Rowing taking home 4/5 Australian University Mens 8s championships.

"From all reports crews last year had a great time and it looks like a great event in a great location." Phil added.

The inclusion of the Sydney teams throws down the gauntlet to defending champions in both the womens and mens university 8+ the University of Queensland and the fledgeling host club Griffith University.

What was considered a dream 12 months ago has now been signed into a legal agreement with Premier Media Group (owners of the Fox Sports Networks) signing a broadcast commitment to air the Griffith University Paradise Regatta sports doco.

With this the final piece of the puzzle in complete and crews will be invited for this chance to take on some of the best crews in the nation with the nation watching.

"This is incredible. To get rowing and dragon boats on TV is electrifying and exciting. Its time for these great athletes to show their skills and get the credit they deserve from a sports hungry Aussie public." Dr Dave Houston said.

For both event and crew sponsors the event exposure the Fox deal ensures is massive with an expected minimum 4 replays.

Broadcast agreements are currently also being worked through with 2 Australian Free to air networks and a broadcast deal with ESPN Asia/Pacific is also in the final stages of approval via water sports magazine program H20 SPORTS - the worlds most widely distributed water sports program. 

Stayed tuned! 

It took only minutes for Pierre and Alan of Swift Racing Australia to take up the offer of Official Equipment and Trade Show Sponsor of the 2009 Griffith University Paradise Regatta.

"This is a really exciting concept and its great to be a part of it." Mr van der Poel said.

Swift Racing Australia is Australia's leading rowing equipment distributor that's rapidly carving out a reputation for value and reliability.

The Gold Coast Arts Centre have re-signed as venue and catering sponosor for the 2009 Griffith University Paradise Regatta.

"From day one we have backed this event because of its benefits to the Gold Coast tourism industry, the Gold Coast community and of course - the home of the Paradise Regatta, the Gold Coast Arts Centre." Mr Jason Solman said.

"We look forward to working with the Paradise Regatta to make it the Melbourne Cup of Australian Water Sports from the Gold Coast Arts Centre's prime river front location."