Atlanta Junior Rowing Association Excels at Head of the Charles Regatta
Atlanta Junior Rowing Association
Oct 20, 2025
In Boston against the world’s best, Atlanta Juniors’ varsity crews achieve top-tier results, reinforcing the club’s reputation as a Southeast powerhouse.
BOSTON, Mass. — The Atlanta Junior Rowing Association (AJRA) made a strong statement at the 2025 Head of the Charles Regatta, the largest rowing event in the world, held October 19–20 along the Charles River. With over 11,500 rowers and 100,000 spectators, the regatta brought together the world’s elite crews, and AJRA’s boats earned top-tier results that highlight the program’s competitive depth.
AJRA’s Men’s and Women’s Varsity 8+ boats both climbed the rankings into the Top 15 in fiercely contested fields of 85+ entries in each event:
Men’s Varsity 8+ — 12th place
Women’s Varsity 8+ — 13th place
These results not only re-qualify both boats but also secure top bow numbers for the 2026 season, a reflection of AJRA’s growing strength on the national stage.
"Head of the Charles is our rare opportunity in the Fall to see where we stand against top teams around the nation" said Men's Head Coach Zach Smarr. "With the Men and Women placing 12th and 13th, we are able to take momentum into spring with trust we are on the right path forward. It is important to acknowledge this success reflects AJRA as a whole. This result is a reflection of the dedication, competition, and hard work the team puts in to push us towards success. All coaches are excited about the result and what’s next."
“Returning from Boston with a 12th and 13th place finish in the men's and women's eights, respectively, highlights the top-end speed that the team has started to cultivate” said Women's Head Coach Maddux Castle, AJRA Head Coach. “Jumping up 6 and 5 finishing places in those fields isn't something that is done easily. Returning from the Head of the Charles and all the drama that happens through the bridges and turns up there, with two of the best performances of recent history for the squads, is something our athletes should be very proud of.”
Founded in Roswell, Georgia, and training on the Chattahoochee River, AJRA supports over 200+ junior athletes from across the Atlanta area. The program continues to build on its tradition of competitive excellence and athlete development, producing high-performing crews that consistently represent the Southeast on the national stage.
Media Contact:
Jeremy Estroff
Atlanta Junior Rowing Association