Behind the Hoopla

It's been a fan-frenzied few months for Boston sports. First, swarms of patriotic golf fans descended on the Country Club in Brookline to watch the Americans bring home the Ryder Cup. Then, attention focused on post-season baseball as the Red Sox vyed for a World Series berth and fans wondered if this scrappy, never-say-die club would finally reverse the curse that has plagued the team since 1918.

As if we didn't have enough opportunity for craziness, tomorrow marks the beginning of the 35th Head of the Charles Regatta, held right here on the banks of Memorial Drive. The two-day rowing event--the largest in the world--draws more than 300,000 spectators and 5,400 athletes from around the world.

The not-so-thrilling fact that boats do not actually race against each other, but against the clock (or more specifically, TAG Heuer, the "official timekeeper" of the regatta) does not prevent crowds from gathering happily on the River's banks to cheer a random boat while munching on overpriced fried dough. Many decide to ignore the race altogether, choosing instead to peruse the booths lining the streets, picking up everything from free corporate paraphernalia to sample sticks of shish kabob.

But underneath this carnival-like atmosphere, there is a real reason why the Regatta is something special. Every boat--whether it represents a club, House, university, or nation--is part of a larger 3-mile parade. It is a parade evoking a unique combination of pride, pageantry and tradition.

Rowers often talk about a particular "zen" to rowing. From a spectator's perspective, it is the aesthetics that is most breathtaking. Especially in late October, when the fall foliage creates a brilliant backdrop on the water's edge, boats cut seamless through the water, leaving behind only a shimmering trail of ripples. It is a sight that must be seen to be remembered.

We hope those who make it down to the river this weekend also make it past the distracting circus--if only to truly appreciate the Regatta.