The Head of the Charles® Regatta is a race unlike any other. Sharp turns, numerous bridges, a tight course, and fierce competition make for one of the most difficult yet exhilarating races. It demands the best in Umpiring talent and training to ensure safety, fairness and consistency for the competitors.

The Head of the Charles Umpiring Committee has improved the Rules of Racing to provide clearer definitions of interference and passing rights of way. Our goal is to have NO penalties issued in error and to capture all instances of rule violation. The key to achieving this goal is Good Umpires that have superior training and experience.

This year's race schedule:

• Includes 2 full days of racing, October 18-19, 2008.
• Requires umpires to work at least one full day vs. one half-day in the past. In this manner we will gain consistency and have to staff far fewer people.
• Includes an umpire meeting Friday afternoon 5:00-7:00 PM—BB&N Upper School (across from CBC).

Just as the competitors have raised the bar, so too must we raise the standards by which the Head of the Charles® is officiated. We need the help of experienced referees, umpires and rowers to implement our greatly improved process and ensure that the regatta is fair to all.

We encourage you to register now to become a Certified HOCR umpire.