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Thousands to Converge on Pittsburgh's Three Rivers for 2008 Head of the Ohio
PITTSBURGH-(Business Wire)-September 4, 2008 - As many as 2,000 competitive rowers from the United States and Canada will join thousands of spectators on Pittsburgh’s three rivers this fall for the 2008 Head of the Ohio, set for Saturday, September 27, 2008. Hosted by Three Rivers Rowing Association, the 2.6-mile race is presented by UPMC Sports Medicine. An annual event, Head of the Ohio’s 22nd edition coincides with the celebration of Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary and presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the beauty, majesty and energy of Pittsburgh’s rivers.
“Rowing is growing rapidly as a preferred recreational activity,†noted Richard Butler, executive director, Three Rivers Rowing Association. “For the past 22 years, Three Rivers Rowing has been dedicated to promoting paddling to a diverse membership, and the Head of the Ohio is a race where competitive rowers can show off their skills while advancing rowing as a sport.â€
Participants in the 2008 Head of the Ohio will compete in categories including juniors, masters and collegiate. This year also marks the 3rd annual Lottie McAlice Junior 1x Race, a 700-meter race for female rowers ages 14-18. This unique competition is a tribute to Lottie McAlice, Pittsburgh’s much-admired 19th century rower, and will recognize the most outstanding young female rower at the regatta with a special bracelet memento designed by Rubini Jewelers.
Commemorative Artwork Unveiled Prior to Race
Head of the Ohio 2008 kicks off on Wednesday, September 10 with a happy hour celebration from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Michael P. Lambert Boathouse on Washington’s Landing. Attendees will be the first to see the Head of the Ohio 2008 commemorative painting, “Three Rivers at the Confluence,†created by artist, Johno Prascak. Prascak is an exciting, up-and-coming Pittsburgh area artist with paintings in the NFL Hall of Fame and Steelers headquarters, as well as a painting of President George H.W. Bush in the Presidential Library. One of his works was featured on the TV show “Will and Grace.†Attendees can take advantage of the only opportunity to purchase a copy personally signed by the artist, and all proceeds from this event benefit the Head of the Ohio and Three Rivers Rowing.
Ways to Enjoy the Race
Spectators can watch the races from the Stewards’ Pier while enjoying sumptuous food and drinks and cheering for their favorite teams, or they can get in on the action and view the finish line area by paddling in a dragon boat. The dragon boat will launch from the river trail below the Heinz Field docks periodically throughout the day. There is no cost to paddle, but rules provided on site apply.
In addition to rowing, Head of the Ohio 2008 will feature a variety of outdoor activities and entertainment at North Shore Riverfront Park, the site of the finish line. The Great Lawn will be home to food and fun for all ages.
To obtain a ticket for the Stewards’ Pier or to register for Head of the Ohio 2008, call 412.231.TRRA or visit, www.headoftheohio.org.
About Three Rivers Rowing Association
Three Rivers Rowing Association is a nonprofit organization committed to developing and delivering safe, sustainable programs and events that promote the benefits of rowing and paddling to a diverse and growing membership. The organization offers an array of rowing and paddling programs that fit the needs of all rowing teams and individuals. For more information, visit www.threeriversrowing.org.
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