Boston gears up for season's biggest outdoor sporting event

The Head of the Charles Regatta, a long-standing New England tradition that takes place every autumn, enters its 38th year this weekend. It still adheres to the customs established by Harvard University sculling instructor Ernest Arlett in 1965 that characterize the series of races set to take place this weekend.

Now the world's largest two-day rowing event, the regatta was established by members of the Cambridge Boat Club. It is modeled after "head of the river races" held in England. "Head" races, a class of regattas, usually span an average of three miles. Boats in turn race against each other and the clock, starting sequentially roughly 15 seconds apart. Winners of each race are awarded the honorary title of "Head of the Charles."

Once a Sunday-only event, the Head of the Charles is perhaps one of the biggest outdoor sporting events of the season (and one of the last before Old Man Winter rears his ugly head). In addition to drawing thousands of rowers from around the world in single, double, four and eight-person boats, it is also one of the area's premiere social gatherings. The race, which begins at Boston University's Boathouse and ends at Herter Park, has been known to attract as many as 300,000-plus spectators to the shores of the Charles River and surrounding areas.

If you're one to pre-party, the Head of the Charles offers plenty of tailgating opportunities. To satiate your growling stomach, stay close to the Flour Bakery and Caf?© on Washington St. Tailgaters will be able to choose from special picnic basket packages that include everything from the eatery's signature pizza bread, salads, fresh baked goods, homemade granola and drinks. But by no means are you limited to these _ you can also choose from a wide selection of sandwiches as well.

With a three-mile span of race territory, the question becomes "Where's the best spot to plant my picnic basket and stake out the action?" For bird's-eye views of the action, spectators should head to Anderson, Weeks or Eliot bridges. Magazine Beach or the Boathouse are other excellent spots that are a little closer to ground level.

Other good race lookouts include the Cambridge side of Memorial Drive and the finish line. Be forewarned, however, that the area gets jam-packed in a jiffy _ for a prime viewing spot, be sure to head over to the grounds well in advance, otherwise you're likely to miss the race while you're busy elbowing through the crowds.

Is the thought of standing still for hours by the side of the windy Charles on a crisp October afternoon is less than appealing (read: you're sensing a peculiar numbness in your extremities just at the thought of it)? Worry not, as there are plenty of events surrounding the race grounds that will keep you warm by keeping you in motion.

Concession stands abound at the Head of the Charles, particularly near the Eliot Bridge and across the river at Soldiers Field Road. Goodies available for purchase include commemorative T-shirts (whether you buy them for sentimental value or because you didn't wear enough layers is up to you) and some good old fashioned chowder, Boston-style. Other official Regatta items include posters, programs and street banners.

The celebration continues this year even after the final boat crosses the finish line, with various after-party engagements at area dance clubs. On Saturday, Avalon will feature discounted admission prices. The same holds for Embassy on Sunday.

The Head of the Charles isn't just for racers and rowers this year. In addition to the event's main attraction, the area surrounding the Charles River will be alive and bustling with opportunities for spectators of all ages and interests. For more information, visit www.hocr.org.