RegattaCentral

History and Event Information:

The 24th Annual Wye Island Regatta features 15 Events. The 13.1 Mile Head Race starts at the Wye Landing on the Wye East River, 18 miles southeast of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and circumnavigates around historic Wye Island a natural preserve.  It is the only 100% “people-powered” paddle/rowing regatta in the US.  It features traditional rowing shells with singles, doubles, four-oared and eight-oared rowing; one and two person kayaking; outrigger canoes, regular canoes, lorries and even SUP (Stand Up Paddleboards).  The regatta is well marked, highly supervised and timed for those who wish to earn medals.  The 13.1-mile “half-marathon” is well protected from the Chesapeake Bay’s open waters and is delightfully scenic as you circumnavigate the historic and nature preserve named Wye Island.

On shore, the venue is complete with food and beverage service, vendor tents, ample field parking, awards and event merchandise.  In its 24th year, the event draws over 500 participants ranging from High School teams and clubs to 80+-year-old paddlers and rowers coming from a dozen different states.  The regatta draws rowers, canoeists, and kayakers from the Mid-Atlantic region to participate in this fun, nature-friendly Chesapeake Bay “green” event.

Annapolis Rowing Club (ARC) serves as the annual host and is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in Annapolis, Maryland. We serve the community and those who love rowing, and those who want to learn to row. We also feature a special cause: Strokes4Survivors.  This special group of cancer survivors receives special training from ARC and come together and row socially with the equipment, coaching and training provided by ARC.  Strokes4Survivors have been featured locally in regional news and magazine publications.