A vibrant celebration of community and athletic excellence, the annual Head of the Trent (HOTT) weekend at Trent University taking place October 4-6 will bring students, alumni, and the community together to cheer on competitive rowers and varsity athletes, enjoy live music and activities, and reconnect with fellow alumni.

“Trent is uniquely fortunate to have one of North America’s most prestigious rowing competitions take place right here on our campus,” says Naomi Handley, director, Alumni Engagement & Services.

“With all that excitement on the river, the drumlin glowing in beautiful fall colours, and a fun-filled line-up of events, it’s the perfect time to invite our students and alumni to gather on campus and cheer on our varsity athletes as they take centre stage. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Symons Campus. This is the time to come together. This is the time for Trent to shine.”

HOTT is the longest-running alumni event in the University’s history. The weekend is centred on the renowned rowing regatta hosted by the Peterborough Rowing Club, a premiere rowing competition that attracts thousands of athletes from across North America and has launched the careers of several national and Olympic athletes.

A weekend of community and competition
This year’s HOTT weekend will feature a range of exciting events and activities for all-ages, including a children’s area, live music, alumni gatherings, and, of course, the opportunity to cheer on the green and white: the Trent Excalibur.

Highlights include:

• Rowing: Visit hotr.ca for the full rowing schedule, start times, results and more information about the history of the regatta. Rowing competitions start at 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
• Varsity games: Stop by the Justin Chiu Stadium and the Athletics Centre, wear your Trent green and cheer on the Excalibur. Follow @TrentExcalibur for results, highlights, and photos throughout the day.
• Alumni gatherings: Trent alumni are encouraged to visit the Alumni Welcome Area on the Upper Podium and enjoy the perks available for Trent grads. Events include the Trent University Rowing Alumni Social and the Peterborough Alumni Chapter social at the historic Pig’s Ear Tavern on Friday, and the Alumni Riverside Social on Saturday. Stay connected by following @TrentAlumni.
• Live music at the HOTT Stage: Join live performances on the HOTT Stage in front of Bata Library, including family entertainer Dan the Music Man, along with alumni favourites Henry Bull and Co. Band, and Reverend Ken & Curtis Driedger.

• Trent University Rower’s Fundraisers: Visit the licensed area on Saturday from 11:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. (all-ages until 2:00 p.m.) at its new location in front of Bata Library. Sales of all HOTT merchandise, including the 2024 commemorative mug, support the Trent University Rowing Club.

New this year:

• Children’s Area: Stop by the Student Centre and get your face painted by Colour Me Wild, see Pepper the Clown for balloon animals, and play some games. Sponsored by Exclusive Brands Sour GooDunkers.
• Food Truck Alley: Grab a bite to eat at the Bata Bus Loop. Food is available from Drum Rock Jerk BBQ, Chaska Indian Street Food, and Chartwells.
• Trent at 60: Visit the Great Hall in Champlain College and look back on 60 years of Trent University with an archival display highlighting some of your favourite people, memories and places.

Most events are free to participants; there is a $10-per-person entry fee for varsity games taking place in Justin Chiu Stadium (free for Trent students and kids 12 and under). Parking is free on campus on Saturday, October 5. Follow signage on campus for parking, as some lots are closed. There is also ample parking on the East Bank. Peterborough Transit buses will pick up and drop off in front of Blackburn Hall. Trent has chartered free buses that will loop between Blackburn Hall and the City terminal via East City, between noon and 8:00 p.m.

Celebrating safely and responsibly
The University is encouraging HOTT attendees to celebrate safely on campus and be good neighbours in the community. Trent is collaborating closely with the City of Peterborough, local emergency services, and our student unions to promote respectful celebrations.

Visit the Head of the Trent website for the complete weekend schedule and to stay updated on events. Follow @TrentUniversity and @rowhotr on social media for updates and highlights. Visitors can also share photos and videos from their HOTT experience using the hashtag #HOTT and tagging @TrentAlumni and @TrentUniversity.