Head of the Rock Regatta

26th Annual Baird Head of the Rock Regatta
Largest NCAA Event in Rockford!

ROCKFORD, IL – Ya Gotta Regatta! In London, they do it on the Thames. In Boston, they do it on the Charles. In Rockford, they do it on the Rock. It’s the Olympic sport of rowing.
It's time for the Annual BAIRD Head of the Rock Regatta. This sanctioned US Rowing event, brought to you by the YMCA of the Rock River Valley's Rowing Club, celebrates its 26th year! On Sunday, October 9, 2011, more than 1,700 rowers from throughout the US will gather in Rockford...many of these rowers were not even born when the first Rockford Regatta took place...and glide thru the waters of the mighty Rock River.

Participants come from over 60 rowing clubs, high schools and universities, with competition beginning at 8:30am and ending at 4:00pm. Many of the Big Ten Conference Teams will be participating this year as well as other Division 1, 2 and 3 schools. To view the teams that will be participating in this year’s event go to www.regattacentral.com, view the calendar and click on Head of the Rock.

Hundreds of sculls skimming along the Rock River powered by the synchronized muscle-action of precision rowing teams, it’s poetry in motion and a strenuous sport. Rowers range from teens to seniors, from novices to masters. There are men’s, women’s and mixed teams.

Spectators won’t be left out as announcers give details on who’s rowing, which team is in front and what it takes to scull. Food, Clothing & music vendors, as well as alumni gatherings will be spread throughout the grounds of the race site. Come and cheer your Alma Mater on! Funds raised support the Strong Kids Program and the Rockford Rowing Club.

Saturday, October 8th is an unstructured practice day, but there is a lot to see and do. Most teams arrive by early afternoon and enjoy practicing on the Rock River. The official races are Sunday, October 9th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., starting at Martin Park near the Riverside Boulevard Bridge. The course traverses a 2.75-mile stretch down the river and ends at the YMCA Log Lodge. Admission is free for spectators.

Martin Park, The Symbol, Sinnissippi Gardens, and anywhere along the east bank of the river, between Riverside Boulevard and Whitman Street are great viewing spots. Bring picnics, chairs and blankets and get a spot early to enjoy a relaxing event. And remember, Ya Gotta Regatta!!

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Brian Boyer, Regatta Co-Chairman: 815-519-7692 or Brianrboyer@yahoo.com
Jane Johnson – YMCA : 815-489-1210 or jane.johnson@rockfordymca.org

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Details

For a detailed list of event information, including route and schedule, click here.

If you have any questions, contact Jane Johnson at 815-489-1210 or email at janejohnson@rockfordymca.org.

Registration

Online Registration for the Head of the Rock Regatta is submitted through Regatta Central