Thousands of athletes from across the country and around the world are taking over the Schuylkill River this weekend for the 56th Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, Philadelphia's largest and most inclusive rowing competition.
The two-day event, held Saturday and Sunday, brings nearly 9,000 competitors from more than 30 states and five countries to Philadelphia, with athletes ranging from high school rowers to Olympians competing along a 2.4-mile course.
"Philadelphia is one of the heartbeats of US rowing with boathouse row, with all those clubs and the ability to bring the community into an event like this is really remarkable," said Robert Zagunis, chair of the US Rowing Board of Directors.
Now in its 56th year, the regatta continues to celebrate rowing's competitive spirit and its accessibility to athletes of all ages and experience levels.
"We have all age groups starting at 14, and I think our oldest competitor this year is 84," said Ellen Carver, president of the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta's board.
Inclusivity remains central to the Philadelphia tradition, with women accounting for half of this year's entries.
Among the international competitors is a women's crew from St. Catharine's Rowing Club in Ontario, Canada.
"This is my first time here, so I'm really excited. I love this course; it's so beautiful," said rower Mia Penetito.
Teammate Sarah Laugher also expressed excitement about returning to the course.
"I'm excited to refamiliarize myself with those bridges, and I think it's going to be really fun," Laugher said.
For other competitors, the regatta offers an opportunity to experience Philadelphia's rich rowing history.
Jeff Owens, men's head coach for Atlanta Rowing Club, traveled with his team from Georgia to participate in the event.
"Really soaking in the history, the significance of the course, the city boat house row," Owens said.
The excitement extends beyond the competition itself, with an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 spectators expected to line the Schuylkill River throughout the weekend.
Visitors can enjoy food, vendors and views of the races while taking in the atmosphere along the riverbanks.
"Part of what we like to do is have people not only watch the racing but enjoy the city," Carver said.
Racing continues Sunday, with high school and masters competitors scheduled to take to the water beginning at 8 a.m.