Louisville Rowing Club

TurfMutt Great Lawn on the Ohio River in Louisville, KY
Follow us on Instagram: @derbycityheadrace
The Derby City Head Race is a 5K head race on the Ohio River, the first regatta of its kind in Louisville, KY. Sanctioned by USRowing, it brings junior, collegiate, masters, and adaptive crews together for a day of racing in the heart of the city.



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The first regatta of its kind in Louisville, KY.
An official, sanctioned regatta.
Right in the heart of the city.
You can see the start line from the finish line.
Juniors, collegiate, masters, and adaptive races.
Both sculling and sweeping events on the schedule.
Walk the riverfront and follow roughly the last 1500m of the race.
Head up onto the walking bridge to watch the race from overhead.
A classic 5,000-meter head-race format.
Entries are handled through RegattaCentral. The Derby City Head Race is run by our volunteer club, and your gift helps make it happen.
Register on RegattaCentral Donate to the RegattaWhether you’re competing or cheering from the riverbank, Louisville has plenty to explore before or after race day.
Main Street & 9th
Home of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center and a permanent collection of rare objects: Teddy Roosevelt’s “Big Stick,” Geronimo’s bow and arrows, a grave marker from the Battle of Little Bighorn, a first edition of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, and the arrest warrant issued for Mary Todd Lincoln.
Main Street & 8th
Celebrates the history of the Louisville Slugger bat. You can peek into the factory from the sidewalk on 8th for a glimpse of bat making in action.
Casual spots a short walk from the waterfront.
A walkable strip of shops, restaurants, and bars along Market Street, just a few blocks long.
Several hotels are within a short walk or ride of the venue at TurfMutt Great Lawn.
We have a discounted group rate at both properties. Book through our group link to get the best price.
Book at Moxy or AloftMore downtown options