All,
We would like to let you know that we have decided to cancel the Head of the Passaic for this year.
The regatta committee made this decision last night in consultation with the directors of Nereid Boat Club and the Passaic River Rowing Association. Due to prolonged dry weather and unusually high tides, the Passaic River has become choked with floating debris for miles. The Passaic Valley Sewerage Commissioners have brought up their large debris skimmer from Newark and are currently removing debris from the river. However, we cannot be sure at this time that river conditions on Sunday will be safe for rowing. Therefore, we feel that we have no choice but to cancel the race.
I have notified RegattaCentral and the credit card payments for registration fees will be undone and credited to everyone's accounts. We are also returning sponsorship funds. Please let me know if your card is not credited within a few days.
Needless to say, we are extremely disappointed in this outcome. We were looking forward to having close to 500 rowers from over 20 organizations compete on the Passaic. We will be in contact with the authorities and organizations governing the Passaic River to determine the cause of this situation and future solutions.
We apologize for any inconvenience the cancellation may cause. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your consideration,
Marc de Mul
2007 Head of the Passaic Director
On behalf of the HOPR Committee
