BOSTON —

When Boston hosts this weekend's Head of the Charles Regatta, history will be made.

The Head of the Charles, the largest three-day rowing event in the world, attracts more than 11,000 athletes from around the globe.

"It's the hallmark of the rowing community every fall. It's exciting every year. A big buildup to this one weekend in October," said race director Brendan Mulvey.

"It's really an incredible event that Boston hosts," said Mike Ortlepp, coach of the South African team.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the regatta continues to achieve milestones, including the participation of Ortlepp's South African crew, which is the first full team of color.

"We've had some really strong rowers of color going as individuals, but not full crew of color," Ortlepp said.

"It feels

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