Bigger and Better in 2014

We are increasing the course to 6 Lanes in an effort to reduce the number of heats and improve racing.  We will also be investing considerably to create buoys to mark the boundaries of all 6 lanes at least every 250m (up from 500m last year), and working with sponsors to more than double that to every 100m.  This season, we will have the stake boat start in place with boat holders.

Course Protection

For this year’s event, we are working with the Park Services to ensure that the No-Wake Zone is enforced during the event to protect athletes and officials.

More Accolades

To match the heightened profile of the event, we have are adding more trophies and more medals. All events will now also award Silver and Bronze medals; Perpetual Trophies will now be awarded for the Varsity Men's 8+ and Varsity Women's 8+'s winners in addition to the Take-Home Trophies; and Commemorative Banners will be sent to the Programs which win the Men’s Points Trophy, Women’s Points Trophy, and Illinois State Championship Trophy.

Professional PA System

Launch, Race, and Result announcements will now be clearly heard across the entire regatta area with the addition of Professional PA Systems.  We will also be upgrading our results posting to make sure all athletes, coaches, and spectators get the most up to date results.

More Vendors

We have already secured clothing and food vendors for this year’s race and are planning to add even more.  We will also be selling posters, race programs, bumper stickers, and other items at the event.

Increased Media Coverage

We are working with local media outlets to increase the exposure of the event.  At present, local radio stations have agreed to publicize the event, and we are working to get local television and newspapers reporting on the day of the race.  Our goal from the outset was to highlight collegiate rowing in Illinois and we are doing our best to make sure this is the biggest and best showcase yet.