On October 20, the Toowong Rowing Club (TRC) is hosting their annual Head of the Brisbane rowing regatta. Boasting over 520 competitors, this 9.6km time trial starts and ends at the TRC pontoon, with a mid-race hairpin turn at speed. The regatta is open to all boat sizes from singles to eights, and rowers of all ages (School, Open and Masters). We anticipate the first boat will push off at 7:45 am, soon to be chased down at 30-second intervals by the other crews. Expect the first finishers to sail across the line at 8.10am.
Rowers may live in a community, but it’s every boat for itself as crews vie for line honours. Emotions run high – the finish line is where the end of race refreshments lie.
Spectators are encouraged to cheer the crews on and can compete with tired rowers for food, drinks from the bar, and the ever-essential coffee. Once fed, the athletes are much more social and contribute to the carnival atmosphere. Smooth, groovin’ Brisbane group Jazzy Chats Big Band will be there, adding a touch of class. The iconic Regatta Hotel will be catering, and local Brisbane mob, Rich Pour will provide the coffee. Other vantage points include the Eleanor Schonell Bridge, the foreshore along the Brisbane Corso and Paringa Place Park (fantastic to watch crews navigate the hairpin turn).
Updates will be on our @HeadoftheBrisbane Facebook page, follow us for Live Action footage on the day. Head to http://headofthebrisbane.com/ for transport and parking information, course details, race updates, and photographs.
Whether you’re interested in rowing, meeting new people, or enjoy watching red-faced athletes pushed to exhaustion, come and join us on October 20 for a great event. Toowong Rowing Club is at 37 Keith St, St Lucia.