BOSTON (WHDH) - Boaters are getting ready for this weekend’s Head of the Charles Regatta, which kicks off at 7:45 Friday morning.
The three-day rowing competition attracts new and experienced rowers from all over the world and has been a staple of the Boston community since 1965.
“I love it – it’s a fabulous course, fabulous people that organize it; it’s so well done,” said Kathryn deSouza, who travelled to the regatta from Nassau, Bahamas.
On Thursday, a bacteria advisory was lifted for the Charles River in the lead-up to the annual event.
More than 12,000 athletes are set to participate representing 42 states and 25 countries.
Races will be held throughout the weekend on the 3.2-mile course, with more than 2,200 volunteers helping the 75 events over the three days run smoothly.
This year the regatta is marking its 60th anniversary, and organizers said they have a handful of events planned.
“We have lots of different vendors and exciting stuff at the finish line for people to check out and it’s going to be beautiful weather, so hope people will get out there,” said Amanda Reilly, chair of the race committee.
Parts of Memorial Drive will be closed throughout the weekend and spectators are encouraged to take public transportation or to utilize rideshare options.
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