Record Number of Rowers Set to Visit High Point this Weekend
A record number of rowers are registered to visit High Point starting Friday for the 2024 Bethany Medical North Carolina Rowing Championships presented by the Lenny Peters Foundation.
The massive rowing regatta hosted by Triad United Rowing Association on Oak Hollow Lake has attracted 445 boat entries this year with over a thousand competitors taking part in the boat races. That is a 32% increase over 2023 which was also a record number. Thousands more spectators are expected to visit Oak Hollow Festival Park to watch North Carolina's biggest annual rowing event.
Race Director Gene Kininmonth attributes the growth to a great venue in Festival Park, corporate support from Bethany Medical and the Lenny Peters Foundation, and 'the best volunteer crew in the sport'.
"We want folks to come to High Point and have a fun experience," says Kininmonth. In addition to the rowing we will have other games such as a tug of war competition, we will have food trucks and a beer garden called the Duck Bar for locals who want to come out and enjoy a day at the lake and watch the races. And we will also have a Best in Show Dog competition so please bring your friendly dog on a leash."
For a more upscale experience spectators are also invited to enjoy watching the races from the Lenny Peters Regatta Lounge, which opens at 8am. The lounge fee includes morning coffee, pastries, hot lunch, champagne or a signature cocktail and the best view of the racing. BUY TIX HERE
Thousands of spectators are expected for the 8th running of the championships, with teams travelling from surrounding states and Washington DC.
"They come with their families and stay overnight. This will give a nice boost to the local economy. Our goal is to make this the city of High Point's biggest annual outdoor sporting event,” says Kininmonth.
Rowers will race in youth, collegiate, and Masters categories.
In addition to the new events, spectators will also enjoy Carolina Beach Blast music and feast from a number of food trucks serving coffee, slushies, burgers and tacos.
WANT TO GO? Races begin at 8am and conclude at 5:30pm. The regatta is open to the general public and admission is free. Parking is $10.
WHERE? 1841 Eastchester Drive, High Point, NC 27265
The Regatta Lounge: Looking for a more comfortable way to spend your day at the lake? Join us in the Regatta Lounge for lunch and refreshments throughout the day. Enjoy a glass of champagne or a signature Regatta cocktail while watching the races and making new rowing friends. Opens at 8am for coffee and pastries. Advance bookings are required. All inclusive for $75
