Crum Regatta
One of the most distinguished traditions of Swarthmore College - both for its uniqueness and its ridiculousness - is the Crum Regatta, a 500-meter race through the shallow waters of Crum Creek. What makes the Regatta a worthwhile event is the variety of boats that students design to dominate the fierce, three-foot-deep waters.
Students are drawn to the event not just to impress their parents, since it occurs during Garnet Weekend, but because of their thirst for glory and prizes. The honors include awards named for Leif Erikson, Christopher Columbus, and Queen Elizabeth. They are not only for the winners, but also for those last to cross the finish line.