Some 437 athletes contribute to 1968 seats being taken in 807 entries over 81 events.

After the first three regattas, North Esk leads the pennant from defending champions University with Buckingham close behind.

Meanwhile Friends have opened a lead on Hutchins and Scotch in the schools trophy race.

There has been a close rivalry between Tamar and Buckingham in the men’s open eight with Tamar winning by less than half a second at the last regatta.

Tamar has the edge with world under-23 bronze medallist Henry Youl stroking their crew and a strong engine room led by Blair Tunevitsch with John McKenzie and Mitchell Digney.

North Esk have built their pennant success around a very strong group of under-21 men.

Jack Barrett continues to improve after medalling at the nationals earlier this year and has combined with Matthew Dikkenberg, Connor Ryan and Lars Gillingham in a very strong quad.

They are just ahead of clubmates Rohan Fenner, Lachlan McCarron, Alex Hutchinson and Tom Barrett.

The open men’s quad race is sure to be a highlight with the two young North Esk crews pitted against quality senior crews from Buckingham, Huon and Tamar brimming with international experienced rowers.

Junior age groups at under 17 and under 19 have very healthy numbers contributing up to 200 rowers to the regatta.