The Head of the Charles is a pinnacle race course - something to admire and fear for coxswains and rowers the world over. An annual event, the course is unparallelled in intensity, snaking through 7 bridges and around 300,000 spectators - it holds the title as the largest two day rowing event in the world. Feeling nervous yet?  Take a breath. Helping you prepare to race We've collected material from experienced coxswains to help you navigate the course.  If you're new to the HOCR or if it isn't your home course, these tips can prepare you for the challenge.  Remember the best route is your own, these are just to get you started. Below you'll find three written steering guides - all from experienced coxswains, one aerial photograph and two coxing audios on the Head of the Charles including: Aerial photo and GPS path from Jim Dwyer - the actual GPS route he took on the course visually mapped [Western RC, Ontario] Have a route to add? Email us and support your fellow coxswains. 1. Meli Mathis is a coxswain and coach in Boston, MA.  She coxed at Cornell for the heavy men as well as the Potomac Masters men in DC.  Meli currently coaches the Boston University masters program.  She's also the head coach for Somerville HS as part of Gentle Giants Rowing Club and works exclusively with coxswains on steering, how to handle various wind types and how to read water to plan a good line.  She's written