By Charlotte Wheeler and Annie Fitzpatrick, Banner Staff

On October 19, three Winsor boats raced in the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR). This year, The Banner went behind the scenes to learn about how the crew team prepares for the pinnacle event of their fall season!

An important aspect of the rowers’ preparation is their physical training: rowing a three-mile course is no easy feat, especially after less than two months of fall practice. Coach Flanagan, Winsor’s Director of Rowing, said that the rowers face “a pretty intense level of training” due to the team’s having minimal time to prepare. Once boat placements for HOCR are announced, the rowers must train with even more intensity to help their boat become faster. Captain Sabina Stevens ’26 said, “you’re rowing not only for yourself and your boat but also for the entire team.” Stevens highlighted that the crew team’s collective spirit helps everyone find the motivation to challenge themselves.

In addition to physical training, athletes must also mentally prepare for the regatta. Unlike spring sprint races where the boats race next to each other separated by buoys, at HOCR boats are sent out one after another with small increments of time in between. Coach Maietta added that “everyone’s sharing the same course” presents an “unknown that is a challenge to prepare for mentally.” Coach Southall shared that “getting to know where all the bridges are and where certain buildings are is really important,” emphasizing the role of strategic preparation. 

The Belmont Hill and Winsor Boathouse is located on the last 700 meters of HOCR, which is considered the final sprint for rowers. As the Winsor rowers sprinted to the finish line, parents and peers could be seen excitedly cheering on the boats. Coach Flanagan shared, “At Winsor, they have a lot of…excitement because of where we are located and how the school supports the Charles.” Stevens remarked that the best part of the race is “[hearing] the screaming off the dock.” Despite the energy from the crowds, though, the rowers must mentally prepare to remain focused on their own boat. Coach Maietta shares, “to just focus on your crew is a really, really good mental strength.” 

Both on and off the water, Winsor rowers have built a close bond throughout the fall season. Stevens 26’ said, “We spend a lot of time socializing with each other before the race, which creates this whole sense of camaraderie and getting to know your entire team so much better.” 

The athletes’ hard work paid off at this year’s HOCR, where the Youth Eight made a strong showing, the Under-17 Four secured an eleventh-place finish out of 32 boats, and the Youth Four finished sixth out of 86 boats! Beyond impressive placements, Winsor was awarded the coveted Metropolitan District Commission Cup given to the Massachusetts high school with the most relative speed in the Youth Fours or Youth Eight categories. When you see Winsor rowers in the hall, be sure to congratulate them on all of their well-earned success.