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Welcome to the 60th annual Head of the Charles Regatta!

This weekend — in a tradition dating back to 1965 — thousands of athletes will walk their boats down to Boston University’s DeWolfe Boathouse, ready to race in this historic regatta. Once again, as the rowers slice through the water, hundreds of thousands of spectators will make an appearance on the banks of the Charles. But not everyone gathered for the festivities understands much about rowing or about the teams flashing by.

Through these pages you’ll learn about the rowers you see out on the river — alumni, walk-ons, captains, and Harvard presidents alike — and the hard work that brought them to this point. We’ll explain how rowing and the HOCR work and what to look for as you cheer on your favorite boats. You’ll read about the long history of this regatta and the moments along the course that push the athletes to row on. More than anything, you’ll hear why so many people come to this one race and what it means to the teams involved.

Enjoy the weekend along the Charles River. Take in the fall, the food, and the races. And as you watch, pause for a moment to read The Crimson and learn more about everything you’ve seen.