History and Legacy: The Dad Vail Regatta: The Dad Vail Regatta is a 85 year tradition for the city of Philadelphia. It is the largest collegiate regatta in the world. Athletes from across the nation descend on the banks of the Schuylkill River every May to compete for the title of Dad Vail Champion. For Drexel University and its rowers, the Dad Vails means something more than just another race; it stands as a continuation of their team's legacy.