London hosts first-in

London hosts first-in-Canada international rowing championships

300 athletes are in London from 20 countries around the world

The FISU World University Rowing Championships are happening on Fanshawe Lake, and it's the first time every that the annual event has been held in North America.

"This is a historic opportunity for Londoners to come out and see some world-class rowing," said Ron Baker, who flew in from Nova Scotia to watch his son Oliver compete in the event.

More than 300 university athletes are here from 20 countries, including Australia, Japan, and many European nations.

"It's great to see cultures coming together, which is a significant portion of the event," said Zanth Jarvis, the director of sports tourism in London.

"We're really excited to be hosting this event. Admission is completely free," said Zanth Jarvis. "You really get to see these boats in action."

The rowing facility at Fanshawe Conservation Area was built for the Canada Summer Games in 2001, and have been upgraded ahead of the world championships, making other world-class events more of a possibility, Jarvis said.

For parents such as the Bakers, getting to watch a championship on Canadian soil is a treat.

"This event typically takes place in other parts of the world. Last year it was in Germany. This is a prime opportunity to see this world-class rowing and to cheer on the Canadian team," Ron Baker said.

The finals begin Saturday at 8:30 a.m., with closing ceremonies and medals expected at around 3 p.m.