The strains of Amazing Grace can soon be heard warbling across the Canal Grande in the heart of Venice, vying for aural attention with a traditional rendering of Sur le pont d’Avignon from equally waterborne French musicians.

On May 23, when this year’s Venice Vogolonga or "long row" regatta gets underway, thousands of Venetian rowers and many others from all over the world will be giving their sporting best during a 30km-long aquatic odyssey through the lagoons.

Only people-powered craft, such as canoes, kayaks or other rowing boats, are eligible to take part. Motorboats are strictly forbidden.

The rowing marathon has been a regular feature on the Venice calendar since 1974 and continues to grow in popularity.

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