Four Years ago, Michael R. Sweeney came up with the idea of holding a regatta in Lawrence. He was a candidate for City Council at the time, and upon taking office in 2001, Sweeney put together a group of businesses and set up the frame work for what is now an annual event.  

Unfortunately, Michael Sweeney's efforts and hard work have been overlooked by self-serving politicos in city hall. Though the regatta is not officially named after him, the Valley Patriot will forever refer to this event as the Michael R. Sweeney Regatta in honor of the many years of dedication, sacrifice and hard work Mr. Sweeney has done to make projects like this a reality for the citizens and children of Lawrence.  

This year’s Michael R. Sweeney Regatta Celebration promises to be a fun-filled time for residents and visitors alike.  A free “family friendly” area has been added to the regatta next door at Riverfront State Park (corner of Eaton and Everett Streets). The park is within walking distance of the regatta. In addition to the Museum of Science’s traveling festival, other exhibitors joining in the June 5th festivities include:  an international soccer exhibit, the MSPCA travel van, a reptile show, Animal Rescue League of Boston, Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, a special children’s raffle table courtesy of American Express Financial and a historic interpreter from Lawrence Heritage State Park.  

“The city of Lawrence is proud share one of our greatest natural resources – the Merrimack River – with its residents and neighbors at the (Michael R. Sweeney) Lawrence Regatta Celebration,” said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan. “We invite everyone to enjoy the boating races, the free family activities, the food, the music and the festive atmosphere.”  

The USRowing-sanctioned Michael R. Sweeney Lawrence Regatta Celebration will take place at the Bashara Boathouse, located at One Eaton Street in Lawrence, from 8 a.m. -2:30 p.m. The regatta’s family friendly area will be located within walking distance at Riverfront State Park from 11a.m. -3 p.m. Star 93.7 radio will be hosting a live broadcast from the regatta, along with free product sampling.  

The event is free, open to the public and conveniently located off the River Road exit on Route 93 (follow signs for the park or boathouse). The area is handicapped accessible. Free shuttle buses will be available. For additional information, please visit the city website at “www.cityoflawrence.com” (click on “events) or contact the Office of Planning & Development at (978) 794-5891, x17.   Please Thank former City Councilor, Michael R. Sweeney for his tremendous efforts in making this event a reality. And tell Mayor Sullivan to change the name to reflect the man who made it all happen.

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