CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – The Harvard-Radcliffe lightweight rowing team will take to the Charles River this weekend for the 60th Head of the Charles Regatta, held Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18–19. The Black and White will make their season debut on Sunday, Oct. 19, looking to build on the momentum of a historic 2024–25 campaign that established the program among the nation's elite.

Racing begins with the Lightweight Four (Bow #3) at 1:51 p.m. ET, followed by two entries in the Lightweight Eight (Bows #3 and #8) at 2:52 p.m. ET.

WHAT TO KNOW

• Harvard-Radcliffe is coming off one of the most successful seasons in recent program history, finishing second overall at both the Eastern Sprints and IRA National Championships. The results marked the program's best national finish in recent years and highlighted its growing strength within collegiate lightweight rowing.
• Award-Winning Leadership: The Black and White are led by Head Coach Stacey Apfelbaum, now in her second season at the helm, and Assistant Coach John Lindberg. The duo was named the Ivy League Coaching Staff of the Year for Women's Lightweight Rowing after guiding the team to unprecedented success in 2025.
• Team Captains: Senior captains Rikkie Nielsen, Kristine Schwartz, and Sisira Holbrook lead the squad into the new season. The trio brings experience, competitiveness, and leadership to a deep lineup that continues to push the program forward.
• National Contenders: With podium finishes at both major spring championships and strong returning talent, Harvard-Radcliffe enters the Head of the Charles as a top national contender. The event will serve as both a homecoming and an early benchmark against fellow collegiate and international crews.
• A Milestone Regatta: The 2025 Head of the Charles celebrates its 60th anniversary, drawing thousands of athletes and fans to the banks of the Charles River for one of rowing's most storied and prestigious events.