History of the HOTC
Every year the Cleveland Rowing Foundation hosts a major regatta (The Head of the Cuyahoga - HOTC) the third Saturday of September. The HOTC is open to high school, collegiate and adult competition from around the country in both sweep and sculling events. The Cuyahoga River provides a unique opportunity for rowers to navigate the challenging turns of our crooked river on the 4800 meter course. This racing distance, called a “head race,” is the standard race format for regattas around the country in the fall. Boats begin with a rolling start at intervals of 10-20 seconds and rowers race against the clock. The crew or rower completing the course in the shortest time in their age and boat category is deemed the winner.
With its inaugural year in 1996, the initial HOTC was named a Cleveland Bicentennial event and attracted over 250 competitors. With continued success and the support of many volunteers and increased sponsorship, the Head of the Cuyahoga has gained the support of several local businesses as well as the United States Coast Guard. This regatta attracts numerous rowing clubs and programs from across the U.S., and it grows every year.
Head of the Cuyahoga Regatta Directors
2013
2012 Cara Sieberth
2011 Cara Sieberth
2010 Sharon Romilly
2009 Theresa Gang
2008 Jeff Scheid
2007 Russ Eckles
2006 Russ Eckles
2005 Mark Silverstein
2004 Kelly Blazek & Vicci Simpkins
2003 Matt Previts
2002 Matt Previts
2001 Dave Werner & Mark Greenburg
2000 Dave Werner & Mark Greenburg
1999 Dave Werner & Mark Greenburg
1998 Dave Werner & Mark Greenburg
1997 Dave Werner & Mark Greenburg
1996 Beth Zone
