RCiR is pleased to present two signature events.  Each event is unique, and is designed to provide participants with opportunities and challenges for personal growth, interaction with new friends, and promotion of the sport of rowing and the community of Rochester.

Head of the Genesee™

October 8th, 9th, and 15th, 2011

The Head of The Genesee™ continues to grow, in both size and favor, forcing a 3rd day of racing for 2011. This year’s event dates are October 8th, 9th and 15th. The Head of the Genesee™ has always been a unique event. In prior years, Saturday’s schedule had been head races for Masters, Open and High School events. Sunday’s schedule has always had collegiate races featuring top crews from the northeast. Morning head races were followed by paired sprints in reverse order of finish from the morning head race. Combined times of the two events have determined the winners.

Erie Canal Firecracker 500

July 2, 2011

The third annual Firecracker 500 will be held on July 2, 2011 on the Erie Canal near the east junction of the Genesee River.  This unique and fun event has gained a loyal following and is growing every year.

The event is run on the canal (East of Genesee River) which gives ideal viewing and photography from above on three graceful arched bridges spanning the canal in Genesee Valley Park, of Monroe County, a 3 minute walk from the launch site.  (see photo below)

This is a sprint event, Henley style, with moving winners bracket matched racing.  Everyone rows four sprint races of 500 M, with 10-15 minutes of rest between, taking a total of 80 to 90 minutes to complete per flight of 16 entries.  Racing will result in the crowning of an ultimate flight champion (and corresponding flight ‘goat’).