2018 Head Of The Charles To Attract 225K Spectators

BOSTON — It's almost here, folks. The Charles River banks and bridges will soon be packed with visitors cheering on rowers from all over the world. The world's largest two day regatta, which happens to be Boston's own Head Of The Charles, is expected to generate more than $72 million in spending to the region as visitors flock to watch the free event, according to Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau President Patrick Moscaritolo.

“Over the past fifty-plus years the Head Of The Charles Regatta has grown into one of the world’s most legendary rowing competitions that attracts individuals from across the globe,” said Frederick Schoch, executive director of the regatta in a statement. “It’s gratifying to know that this event, which generates so much passion from competitors and enjoyment from spectators, is also bringing significant economic dollars to the Greater Boston region.”

The annual regatta is held each year on the next-to-last weekend in October, and almost 11,000 athletes are slated to come row, XC from across the world in events for Juniors, Olympians, Para and Masters athletes. accessible to view from any bridge or shoreline along the three-mile Charles River course. hocr.org.

Organizers estimate that some 225,000 people head to the banks of the Charles River for the two days to watch the races. Approximately 65 percent of those individuals are classified as “visitors” – traveling from outside the Greater Boston region, according to a McKinsey & Company analysis.

This year's regatta will welcome nearly 11,000 athletes from 24 countries. More than 800 schools, universities and organizations are expected to send teams to compete in the 2018 race, and approximately 87 percent of these athletes will come from beyond Greater Boston.

Photo by Jenna Fisher/Patch Staff