Annual rowing event brings ‘a lot of cheering’ to Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The 26th annual Head of the South Fall Regatta took place on Saturday.

We talked with organizers about the participants, economics boost and how they bounced back to be ready after Helene hit our area.

It is one of the largest head races in the southeast.

“I think they’re having a good time. I see a lot of smiles down there by the shelf trailer,” said Kirsten Aylward, president of Augusta Rowing Club.

Rowers from states all over travel to the CSRA to compete.

“We have over 40 teams with us this year, about 1,100 athletes from all over the southeast and as far away as Colorado and Pennsylvania,” said Aylward.

Rowers of all ages can compete in the Regatta.

“It’s the head race. So, it’s 5,000 meters. Our start line is up at Hammonds Ferry dock, and our finish line is one of the homes in River North. And so, it’s a total little over three miles,” she said.

Aylward says they were unsure if they were going to be able to host the event this year after Hurricane Helene.

“The impact it would have was the flooding that occurred on the Augusta on the Savannah River, but we were very fortunate that the boathouse held up well. The river recovered nicely,” she said.

She says the only obstacle now is the course itself.

“They’re going through four different bridges, and they have to navigate some of the abutments and obstacles in the river,” said Aylward.

But the course isn’t the only challenge.

“The wind and the chop on the river is posing some obstacles for the rowers, but they seem to be working around it pretty well,” said Aylward.

Aylward says they are just happy to be able to leave it all out on the water.

“So, there’s a lot to do, a lot to see, a lot of excitement. A lot of cheering, as you can hear in the background, for their teams, and just a great event,” she said.

The Augusta Sports Council’s economic data says the regatta brought in more than $1 million for the CSRA last year, so the event provides a boost to the region.

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