The Charles Commences

12 July 2024Isabel H, Mackenzie '23

After 22 hours of travel, completing five laps along The Charles River, and conquering a grueling 2.5-mile race, The Brentwood Rowers can proudly declare their triumphant participation in the internationally renowned rowing regatta, The Head of Charles.

These ambitious rowers departed campus in the late afternoon on Wednesday, headed to Boston, eagerly anticipating the formidable challenge awaiting them – a demanding upstream 2.5-mile race featuring over 90 competitors in their heat. Despite the daunting nature of the task at hand, they embarked on a confident journey across the continent to represent the Brentwood ‘B’ on the international stage.

The Senior Women were both ambitious and apprehensive as they prepared for their race, scheduled for the early hours of Sunday, October 22. Together, they meticulously devised race strategies aimed at optimizing their performance in the Youth Women’s 8+ category.

While the Head of Charles Regatta is an arduous endeavor for athletes, the coaches and crew predominantly concentrated on the crucial role of the coxswain in the boat. This role encompassed planning, execution, and securing any available space on the river. With 11,000 athletes converging on Boston to showcase their dedication and effort, the river became densely packed. Consequently, strategic prowess played a pivotal role in achieving the best possible result for the boat. The nine individual women who embarked on this journey emerged as a cohesive unit, propelling the boat across the finish line to the cheers of the thousands of spectators there to support Brentwood ‘B.’

Marin A, Bow seat (Alex ‘24), expressed, “Our collective preparation, particularly the time spent in Boston, brought us together, transforming us from nine individuals into one unit, one team.” The Senior Women were elated with their performance, securing a position in the top third of the ninety boats in their race. With a time of 19:05.8, they crossed the finish line as one united Brentwood team.

The Senior Men, too, demonstrated impressive prowess, maintaining the Brentwood standard and fostering camaraderie with the Brentwood Women. “The natural beauty of Boston enhanced the rowing experience,” noted Eli B, Ellis ‘24. Although rowing can often be serene, the race exuded an energy that the boys had never encountered before. Hugo S, Ellis ‘24 described it as an experience where “clashing oars was insane, everyone was yelling,” illustrating the determination that the multiple boats felt to reach the finish line.

Together, the Brentwood rowing team proudly brought home their efforts and were welcomed back to campus to continue their efforts to prepare for the Head of Lake Regatta on November 5th.

Isabel H, Mackenzie ‘25, 4 Seat

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