The 55th Head Of The Charles Regatta (HOCR) is expected to generate more than $88 million (USD) in spending in Massachusetts, according to analysis from the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) and McKinsey & Company.
The largest two-day regatta in the world, the 2019 Regatta takes place on October 19-20, 2019. More than 11,000 athletes from 24 countries are participating, and 225,000 people are expected as spectators. Nearly 55 percent of those individuals are classified as “visitors” – traveling from 50 miles or more to come to Boston and Cambridge for the Regatta.
GBCVB President & CEO Martha J. Sheridan called The Head Of The Charles “the premier regatta in the world, and an iconic annual event for our destination. Our visitor industry looks forward each year to welcoming rowers, spectators and media from around the world to Boston and Cambridge.”
More than 800 schools, universities and organizations are represented in the 2019 race, and about 87 percent of these athletes will come from beyond Greater Boston.
Regatta Executive Director Frederick Schoch said that for the past half a century, “The Head Of The Charles Regatta has grown into one of the world’s most legendary rowing commpetions that attracts individuals from across the globe. It’s gratifying to know that this event, which generates so much passion from competitors and enjoyment from specators, is also brining significant economic dollars to the Greater Boston region.”
The estimated $88.5 million (USD) spending impact is generated primarily from the direct spend of event attendees – the athletes, coaches, schools and spectators that come to Boston for the Regatta. While 36% of spectators come from within the Greater Boston area, and another 10% from within a 50 mile radius of Boston, the remaining attendees – the majority – are visitors; the injection of spending from these people for lodging, transportation, retail and recreation amounts to over $70 million (USD). Spending from media, sponsors and the event organizer also contribute to the $88 million (USD) overall economic impact.
The Head Of The Charles Regatta hosts a variety of events for local and international rowers. The Regatta engages rowers of diverse experience, including Juniors, Olympians, Para and Masters athletes and has become a signature sporting event in New England. It is free to the public and accessible to view from any bridge or shoreline along the three-mile Charles River course. Since 2013, its lead sponsor has been BNY Mellon, which has played a crucial role in promoting and supporting the iconic race weekend. Head of the Charles Regatta media sponsors include NBC10 Boston/NECN and the Boston Business Journal. Catch special coverage of the 55th HOCR on NBC 10 Boston’s The Hub Today on Wednesday October 16 and Friday October 18, and on This is New England Sunday, October 20. For more information about the event, visit Head Of The Charles at hocr.org.
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For information about visiting Massachusetts, go to MassVacation.com.