The Program

Since its inception in 1998, the Charity Program has worked to generate over $1,000,000 for a number of worthy causes. Participation in the Charity Program is open to single scullers, doubles, fours and eights. In the past, the Regatta has joined competitors in their fundraising efforts by matching contributions dollar for dollar. They have also made separate sizable contributions to each charity.

Program participants are guaranteed entry into the event of their choice, provided they meet eligibility, entry fee, and deadline requirements. This program provides the rowing community and Regatta the opportunity to offer their support to some very worthy endeavors. Charity Program participants will be duly recognized for their philanthropic efforts in the Official Regatta Program.

Submit Applications Here

Any single, double, four or eight is eligible to apply to the Charity Program – only 1 application needed for crews (2x, 4+, 8+). The Regatta will guarantee entry in the Regatta to 50 applicants (singles, doubles and crews) committing to participate in Charity Program.  By Registering you are committing to raise the minimum amount listed below, and Head Of The Charles® Regatta reserves the right to withdraw entries who are not able to meet the commitment.

Forty (40) spaces will be available beginning Spring, with the remaining ten (10) spaces being made available following the Sweeps & Doubles Draw in September. The fundraising commitments do not include the registration fee – which will be charged at the time of official acceptance of entry to the Regatta. 

NEW for ’24: Returning Charity Program participants must commit to an increased fundraising/donation goal of $500 over the minimum.  Each event at HOCR receives a high amount of demand, and the goal of this increase is to make a greater impact for our Official Charities from participants who annually participate in this program.  All Charity Program participants are encouraged to fundraise/donate beyond the minimum amounts.

2024 Charity Commitments

Singles (1x) – $2000 (Returning Participants: $2500)

Doubles (2x) – $3000 (Returning Participants: $3500)

Fours (4+), Coxed Quads (4x+) – $4,000

Eights (8+) – $6,000

Please note that Directors’ Challenge Events are not eligible for the Charity Program as they are first come, first serve entry; the Charity Program is for standard events which utilize the draw process for entry.

IMPORTANT: Your donation will not be processed during the registration process.  After registration, please allow 1-3 business days for information regarding donations and fundraising.  Once processed, charity program participants receive information further information regarding donations and fundraising.

Need Help? If you have any difficulty signing up, please email regatta@hocr.org.