Each October, tens of thousands of rowers from around the world descend onto the banks of the Charles River in Boston, MA for the largest rowing event in the world, the Head of the Charles Regatta. Entries to this event are earned by previous results or by lottery drawings. This year of the Charles is especially significant, as it marks the 50th year of the regatta's running.

This year, our very own VCU Women's Varsity boat was selected for an entry into the Club 4+ event. The event is 53 boats deep, which (incredibly) makes it only the 11th largest event of the regatta. They will face boats from Ivy Leagues, Division 1 Programs, even a boat from across the pond. This is the first boat VCU has fielded at the regatta since 2018.

The regatta brings with it a number of logistical hurdles given its scale and distance. Costs associated with the event are both significant, and unexpected, given the lottery system. These athletes work hard enough between the water, the ergs, and the library. We are calling upon the VCU Crew Community to aid this squad in their endeavor for speed by fundraising to cover their race entry, travel, and lodging expenses, expected to be around $2,500.

THE LINE UP

Stroke Seat: Marissa Bookoff is a third year rower, walking onto the team and learning to row as a freshman. She double majors in Sculpture & Environmental Studies. She is the current Captain of the women's team and has a 5k time faster than many on the men's team.

Three Seat: Bella Di Leo is a third year rower, who also learned to row at VCU as a freshman. She is an Environmental Studies major and she sinks all her free time into the erg.

Two Seat: Sophie Kothe is a fourth year rower and learned to row as a novice at VCU. She is a former Captain of the Women's Team and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree (!) in Biomedical Engineering (!!).

Bow Seat: Surabhi Bangarbale is a third year VCU rower and came to VCU as a four year high school rower. She is majoring in Medical Device Manufacturing and outside the classroom she puts in countless hours as the Club's President.

Coxswain: Jo Ropetski is also a third year VCU rower and four year high school rower. She majors in Communication Arts and is always determined to get the best out of her crew.

There's some serious passion, dedication, and experience in this boat. Together, lets send them to take some bowballs in Boston! No amount is too small and all amounts are tax deductible, as the Virginia Commonwealth Rowing Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Please contact VACRA with any questions.