Parent's Guide to Regattas

Regattas are the competitions associated with rowing. Races are scheduled throughout the day. Generally, your child will be in 1-3 races. Rowers will usually receive their boat assignments and estimated race times the Friday night before the race. Our coaches do their best to share time and race information as early as possible, but they do not receive some of this information from the regatta site until a couple days prior. Information will be shared in the Huron Parents WhatsApp group as well as by email. 

In the fall season, rowers do "head races," where boats are launched one by one at regular intervals and winners are determined by the fastest time. Fall regattas are longer distances. In the spring, the races are "head to head," when boats race each other at the same time.

Races may involve 8, 4, 2, or 1 rowers. In "eights" and "fours," rowers have coxswains leading them. In these boats, each rower has one oar, held in both hands (called sweeping). Two-person boats may also involve sweeping (called a "pair") or may involve sculling, when there are two oars per rower (called "doubles"). Novice rowers are generally in eights and fours - maybe one of each! 

Each regatta typically uses Regatta Central. It has more information than you need, but it's a great resource to know about. During the race, results will be posted on Crew Timer. Generally, someone will share the regatta's specific Crew Timer link in the WhatsApp chat the day of the race for easy access. 

Rowers arrive early to get the boats off the trailer and ready to race (usually around 6-7 am), and they stay until the very end (usually around 4-5 pm). Rowers need to stay until all races have been completed, boats have been put back on the trailer, and the coaches have dismissed the entire team together. 

When you arrive, there is often a specific drop-off point for rowers. They'll head over to the trailer immediately to help get the boats ready. Plan to arrive a bit early to avoid traffic and allow time for your rower to find the trailer. You'll follow signs for parking and then head over to the areas with the tents. Depending on the number of schools at the regatta, there may be a lot! Look for the two forest green and yellow Huron tents!

While it varies by location, generally kids have to "row out" from the dock to the starting line. Often, they'll pass the spectators on their way. After they row out, it will be some time before you see them race back to the finish line. You can check their times and results on Crew Timer.

When not racing, the rowers will typically be in the vicinity of the Team Tents enjoying Regatta Support (meals, snacks and drinks), resting, or even doing some homework. They also provide dock support as needed for their teammates. At the end of the regatta, when racing is done and the Regatta Support tend is packed up, the team will meet at the boat trailer to recognize accomplishments, have announcements, and conclude with their team cheer before dismissal. 

Kids should get a good night's sleep and be on time. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly to be outside all day.

Most of our regattas are within easy driving distance. Occasionally, we'll have a regatta a few hours away. It is up to each family to determine if they prefer to drive in the night before and stay at a hotel. If your child needs a ride to or from a regatta, no worries - just connect directly with other parents. Transportation is not organized by the school or coaches. Rowers are not allowed to drive themselves to regattas. 



What can I do to help?

Regatta Support feeds rowers breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day. Please sign up for a shift with Regatta Support throughout the day. It takes a village to assure we are providing our rowers hot, nutritious meals that will give them the energy they need to perform well. There are a number of different ways to help, from setup and take-down to cooking and serving. The Regatta Support Lead will send out a sign-up sheet the week before the race. And, of course, if your child races during your volunteer time, you're very welcome to leave to watch!

What should I do when not helping with Regatta Support?

When not volunteering or cheering for Huron races, you can spend your time checking out the race course. Feel free to explore the site! Some race sites have onsite food and apparel vendors.

Please note, only rowers and coaches are allowed in the boat staging area during the regatta.

What should my rower bring to the regatta?

Every rower needs to bring their wrench and wear their uniform. It's a good idea to bring extra socks and a set of clothes. Some rowers like to bring a visor, sun glasses, sunscreen, blanket, water bottle, and comfy clothes to wear over their uniform. Label things with your rower's name if at all possible. Don't forget to charge their phone if they want to have it with them! 

What should I bring to regattas?

Race days can be long, especially for spectators. Here are some items to help you follow the races and remain comfortable:

• Charge your phone and fill your gas tank the night before.
• Dress in layers. Regatta days often start cool and end up warmer later in the day. 
• Bring foldable chairs. There is often an open area to set these up. Large regattas may have bleachers, but do not expect seating to be provided!
• Binoculars can be helpful as most of the race will be in the distance. 
• Rain protection such as ponchos, umbrellas, extra layers, etc. can be helpful depending on the forecast.
• Sun protection like sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, etc. is often needed - even on cooler days! 
• Occasionally cash may be needed for parking, so it’s good to come prepared just in case. Usually any merchandise and food tents accept card.