Thousands Watch Head of the Charles Regatta

The banks of the Charles River were lined with spectators as rowers from around the world competed in the 50th annual run in Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The 50th Head of the Charles Regatta an event that Margaret Ayers wouldn't miss as she waits for her friend to row past her.

"This is the best spot to cheer her on," she said. "I hope she can hear me out there."

Her voice isn't the only one being heard by rowers - more than 400,000 spectators were on hand this weekend for this the event where rowers from across the world descend on Massachusetts.

"I like watching the singles, cause I usually row a single myself," said Natalie Stuart.

"I like the atmosphere because everyone is having a great time," said Eamon Glavin, who rows for Duke University. "We did OK. We had a little issue making the last turn. We kind of had a little scuffle with NAVY."

Organizers say this event is a perfect selling point for a 2024 Olympic bid in Boston.

Head of the Charles organizer Fred Schoch is cautiously optimistic.

"It couldn't be a better endorsement for having something like that," he said.

This event brings in $54 million each year, and it does something even more valuable for those who love rowing.

"It's opening up the sport to local high schools and rowing clubs," said John Norton of Belmont. "It's just a great sport."

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