The Regata Storica is the main event in the annual "Voga alla Veneta" rowing calendar. This unique sport has been practised in the Venetian lagoon for thousands of years and today it is particularly well-known for the spectacular historical water pageant that precedes the race.

The competition was held on the Canal Grande, with the start line set by the Rialto bridge. This is the third time the Warwick team, made up of members of Warwick Rowing Society, takes part in the third International Universities Rowing Palio, with support from Erasmus funding.