at the San Diego Crew Classic.
Brunch is a favorite past-time for almost any San Diegan. With the beautiful weather, breathtaking views in nearly every part of the county whether it be the city or the near the coast, and culinary specialties of all varieties, it is no surprise that that is how many like to spend our weekend mornings. Nothing says San Diego like a brunch on the bay. This special opportunity is the Classic Brunch by the Bay presented by the San Diego Crew Classic on March 25, 2018. The fun affair is an annual fundraiser held in support of the San Diego Crew Classic. Now in its 45th year, the Crew Classic is one of the largest rowing regattas in the world. With a rich rowing history, San Diego is a great host to this competitive and riveting event which brings out droves of locals, competitors and tourists each year. This year, it is expected to welcome 4,000 athletes from 14 to 80 years of age representing over a hundred crew teams from across the country as well as Canada and Mexico.
Championed by the consummate fundraising volunteer and San Diego booster, Jane Fetter, the Classic Brunch by the Bay has been lovingly planned for the past 24 years by a loyal volunteer committee. This year, Ms. Fetter will be honored for her vital role in the support of the organization. Continuing her tradition of memorable brunches, the committee will bring together a talented group from throughout San Diego. Acclaimed local chef, Giuseppe Ciuffa, and his catering team will be serving an exquisitely prepared brunch with handcrafted specialties prepared to perfection for a memorable dining experience. The brunch will reflect the regatta’s rich tradition complimented with modern, elegant touches. The goal is to support rowing as a sport that benefits individuals of all ages and abilities, while also showcasing San Diego’s Mission Bay as a preferred venue for top teams to compete. This year, top ranked men’s collegiate crews from Yale, Penn, Cal and Navy have accepted the invitation to compete for the Copley Cup and women’s collegiate teams from Cal, UCLA, USD, USC and University of Texas will compete for the coveted Jessop-Whittier Cup.
On the second day of the races, brunch guests will watch from the best vantage point in the Champions Pavilion, a large tent perched on the grassy knoll at the finish line. This location allows guests to dine and see the teams compete and hear the calls of the coxswains as the rowers sprint to the finish line. The eight-person shells will compete side-by-side on a 2,000-meter course running along the shore to the finish line at Crown Point Shores. Along the water’s edge, spirited alumni, students and spectators gather every year to cheer on their teams with shouts of encouragement. Brunch guests also immerse themselves in the fun environment as celebratory mimosas and Bloody Marys are had. Guests support of the regatta while mingling with others passionate about the sport or those who are enthusiastic about this thrilling new experience. It is no wonder that for over four decades, the San Diego Crew Classic and the Classic Brunch by the Bay have been a favorite San Diego spectator and social event not to be missed: there is nothing else like it!
