September 19, 2024 Submitted by J.P. Powers, Secretary HHSRA
Amidst sunny skies and a warm late afternoon breeze, The Hingham High School Rowing Association kicked off the fall rowing season with a celebration of community at a fun and festive first annual Oktoberfest. The event began with the christening of “Bama and the Boss,” a state of the art rowing shell named in honor of the Whamond family, and named for Katherine and Donald Whamond, whose generosity and tireless, multi-generational efforts have contributed immeasurably to the growth and success of Hingham High Crew.
After the ceremony at the Hingham Maritime Center, the team walked to the bathing beach for a fantastic afternoon of revelry and cheer. With live traditional German music by Kier Byrnes & the Kettle Burners and 3 Day Threshold, tasty brats and burnt ends from Al’s BBQ, and frosty beverages from Untold Brewing, attendees had a chance to catch up with old friends, spend some time with teammates and neighbors, and show their support for one of Hingham’s largest athletic communities.
As the sun began to go down, guests were treated to a warmly lit atmosphere, as the decorative lights, generously supplied by Blingle, provided a gorgeous backdrop for enjoying harbor views. Some of the highlights of the event were the facepainting (provided by volunteers from the crew team) and lively games of cornhole. Many members of the crew team donned red for the special occasion, and several attendees were spotted wearing traditional German lederhosen, alpine hats, and dirndl dresses.
HHSRA’s Oktoberfest was a tremendous success, raising nearly $20,000, thanks to the generous support of our many sponsors, including Sonya Franklin, kloTH, Wingbrace, LLC, Blingle, Stop & Shop, Krigsman Yoga, The Cornerstop Eatery, Karl and Marie Kyriss, JL Racing, MassMVMNT, Everybody Water and Ultimate Soccer Academy. A hearty thank you to these and the many volunteers who poured endless time and energy into making this event so special.