Photo: James Rojas (WBZ)
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Thousands of rowers put their oars to good use for the start of the 2023 Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston Friday.
The annual three-day rowing competition in the Charles River attracted new and experienced rowers from across the United States and countries like France, Japan, and Ukraine.
The 75 scheduled events kicked off at 7:45 a.m. with races for the regatta's oldest participants.
"I was in Senior Veteran 2’s, which is the old geezers, 75-plus," Mike from Connecticut told WBZ NewsRadio at the finish line. "I came second in my category, sixth in the overall 70-plus."
"There were people on every bridge," said Ruth, 76. "What I love about our club the most is it’s all ages, all different kinds of people, they’re rowing for all different reasons, but we really support each other. And we want to kill each other on the water, but once we’re off the water, we’re fine."
1 of 2 Photo: James Rojas (WBZ)
2 of 2 Photo: James Rojas (WBZ)
On the opposite end of the age spectrum were teenagers Luca and Liam from Minneapolis.
"I enjoyed it a lot," the 16-year-old Luca said. "The regattas we’ve been to have not been this crowded and not many people, so I really like a bigger regatta. It’s a lot more fun."
"It’s really super cool to see all of the exhibits from all the different companies, a bunch of cool new stuff," added Liam, 17.
Rowers who crossed the finish line told WBZ that Friday's weather was perfect rowing conditions, but Saturday's rainy, windy forecast does not look so cooperative.
"It will be a challenge," Marlene noted. "You’ll be wet, but it won’t be too windy for you, I don’t think. But we do have the pick of the race."
The final event will be the Director's Challenge Mixed Eight on Sunday afternoon.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.
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