The Head of the Charles Regatta is the world's largest two-day rowing event. Over the past 45 years, this race has grown tremendously, attracting more than 7,500 athletes from all corners of the world. More than 55 races are held at the event, with each winner being awarded the honorary title of "Head of the River" or, in this case, "Head of the Charles" as the races are held on Charles River. More than 300,000 spectators come out to cheer the teams on, making for an unforgettable scene. Car hire Boston travelers are encouraged to come out and enjoy the fun as part of their upcoming Massachusetts getaway.

Row, row, row your boat gently down the stream!

The Head of the Charles Regatta was established in 1965 by three members of the Cambridge Boat Club. Today, the Cambridge Boat Club maintains an active membership of more than 325 area rowers. The club also hosts a number of prestigious events each year, with the Charles Head Regatta as its crowning jewel. Car hire Boston travelers can learn more about the Cambridge Boat Club by visiting Gerry's Landing in Cambridge. Rowers are almost always out working on their strokes, provided the weather's cooperating.

A quick look at the course

Car hire Boston travelers will find the regatta's starting line at the Boston University Boathouse. From there, the course goes almost immediately under the railroad trestle bridge and the B.U. Bridge. It continues under five more bridges, finishing approximately 3 miles upstream. Orange and green buoys are also used to delineate the lines of the course. There are very specific rules as to what bridge arch racers should utilize while on the course. For further details, car hire Boston travelers should refer to the Race Course Description at www.hocr.org.

Race your glass at Reunion Village

Whether you're a spectator or a competitor, the Head of the Charles Reunion Village is the place to be for fun and refreshments during the regatta. Designed with a relaxed atmosphere in mind, the Reunion Village is a tented area located at the halfway point of the race on the Boston side of the Charles River. Everyone is welcome inside the village, including clubs, school groups and car hire Boston travelers. All you need is a $1 donation for unlimited day-long access. Reunion Village is fully licensed to serve beer and liquor during the event, so remember to drop by and raise your glass to the talented athletes out on the water. Car hire Boston travelers will also find breakfast and lunch concessions inside the tent.

Giving to a good cause

The Head of the Charles Regatta proudly supports local charities as part of the Competitors Charity Program. Since its inception in 1998, the program has raised over $650,000 for worthy community causes like Access Sport America and Community Rowing. Race participants that enrol in the charity program are guaranteed entry into the event of their choice (provided they meet eligibility, entry fee and deadline requirements). Plus, the Regatta will either match your contribution dollar for dollar or make a sizeable donation to each charity involved. Car hire Boston travelers can also donate to the regatta's official charities inside the Reunion Village. Participants accepted into the charity program must raise a minimum of $1,250 dollars in order to be considered a charity rower or rowing team.

On your marks, get set - GO!

Car hire Boston travelers can learn more about the Head of the Charles Regatta by contacting event conveners at 617-868-6200. Car hire Boston travelers are also encouraged to stop by the Row-A-Palooza concert at the event, as well as the Rowing and Fitness Expo. Official sponsors of the Head of the Charles Regatta include Nautica, Whaleback Systems and Mix 98.5.