N※N

Ford Lake''s new rowing course hosts one of the sport''s biggest national events

Rowfest Returns to Ford Lake in Ypsilanti, Bringing Community Together Through Rowing and Festivities

YPSILANTI, Mich. – The serene waters of Ford Lake in Ypsilanti once again came alive with the rhythmic splash of oars and the cheers of enthusiastic crowds as Rowfest made its triumphant return this weekend. The annual event, a beloved tradition in the region, transformed the lakeside into a vibrant hub of athletic competition, family-friendly activities, and community spirit. Organized by local rowing enthusiasts and supported by the city of Ypsilanti, Rowfest drew hundreds of participants and spectators, showcasing the enduring appeal of rowing as both a sport and a communal gathering.

At its core, Rowfest is more than just a series of races; it's a celebration of the area's rich history with water sports and outdoor recreation. Ford Lake, a man-made reservoir created in the early 20th century as part of the Huron River system, has long served as a recreational gem for residents of Ypsilanti and nearby Ann Arbor. The lake's calm waters provide an ideal setting for rowing, and Rowfest capitalizes on this natural asset to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and environmental awareness. This year's edition, held over a sunny Saturday and Sunday, featured a packed schedule that included competitive rowing regattas, beginner clinics, live music performances, food vendors, and educational exhibits on local ecology.

The event kicked off early Saturday morning with the opening ceremonies, where Ypsilanti Mayor Nicole Brown delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of community events in fostering unity. "Rowfest isn't just about the races; it's about coming together as a community to enjoy our beautiful lake and support one another," she said, highlighting how the festival has grown from a small gathering of local rowers into a major regional attraction. Following the mayor's remarks, the first heats of the rowing competitions began, with teams from across Michigan and even neighboring states vying for top honors in categories ranging from novice to elite.

Competitors of all ages and skill levels took to the water in sleek rowing shells, their synchronized strokes cutting through the lake's surface. One standout race was the men's eight-oar event, where a team from the University of Michigan's rowing club edged out a strong contingent from Detroit's own rowing association by mere seconds. Spectators lined the shores, many equipped with binoculars and picnic blankets, cheering on the athletes as they powered through the 2,000-meter course. For many participants, the event represented a personal milestone. Take Sarah Jenkins, a 42-year-old Ypsilanti resident and first-time rower, who shared her story of overcoming health challenges to join a community rowing group. "Rowing has given me a new lease on life," Jenkins told reporters. "Being out here with everyone, feeling the support—it's incredible."

Beyond the competitive aspect, Rowfest offered a plethora of activities designed to engage families and newcomers. Free rowing clinics were a hit, allowing children and adults alike to try their hand at the sport under the guidance of experienced coaches from the Ypsilanti Rowing Club. These sessions emphasized safety, technique, and the joy of being on the water, with instructors patiently demonstrating how to handle oars and maintain balance in the boats. One young participant, 10-year-old Mia Gonzalez, beamed with excitement after her first lesson. "I thought it would be hard, but it's so fun! I want to do this every weekend," she exclaimed, her enthusiasm mirroring the festival's goal of inspiring the next generation of rowers.

The festival's commitment to education extended to environmental themes, with booths set up by local organizations like the Huron River Watershed Council. Attendees learned about efforts to preserve Ford Lake's ecosystem, including initiatives to combat invasive species and improve water quality. Interactive displays allowed visitors to see native fish species up close and understand the impact of pollution on the lake. "Events like Rowfest are crucial for raising awareness," said environmental educator Tom Wilson. "When people connect with the water through fun activities, they're more likely to care about protecting it."

No festival would be complete without entertainment and cuisine, and Rowfest delivered on both fronts. A main stage hosted live bands throughout the day, featuring a mix of local folk musicians, jazz ensembles, and even a performance by a high school drum line. The air was filled with the sounds of upbeat tunes that complemented the energetic atmosphere. Food trucks lined the perimeter of the event area, offering everything from classic Michigan favorites like coney dogs and fresh lake perch to healthier options such as salads and vegan wraps. Local breweries provided craft beers, while non-alcoholic options ensured the event was inclusive for all ages. Families picnicked on the grassy banks, sharing laughs and stories as they watched the races unfold.

Rowfest's history adds depth to its appeal. First launched over a decade ago by a group of passionate rowers who wanted to revitalize interest in the sport after a decline in local participation, the event has steadily grown. Initially a modest affair with just a handful of races, it now attracts sponsors from major outdoor brands and draws crowds numbering in the thousands. This year's edition was particularly special, marking a full return after scaled-back versions during the pandemic. Organizers noted a surge in registrations, attributing it to a renewed public interest in outdoor activities post-isolation.

Community impact was a recurring theme among attendees and organizers. Local businesses benefited from the influx of visitors, with nearby shops and restaurants reporting brisk sales. The Ypsilanti Area Convention and Visitors Bureau promoted the event as a key draw for tourism, positioning Ford Lake as a destination for adventure seekers. Volunteers played a pivotal role, with over 100 locals pitching in to handle everything from boat launches to crowd management. "This is what Ypsilanti is all about—people coming together to create something special," said event coordinator Lisa Hargrove.

As the sun set on Sunday, the final races concluded with awards ceremonies honoring top performers. Medals were handed out amid applause, and the overall champions received custom trophies crafted by local artisans. But beyond the hardware, the true winners were the participants who formed new friendships and the community that strengthened its bonds. Rowfest wrapped up with a communal bonfire and storytelling session, where rowers shared tales of past events and dreams for the future.

Looking ahead, organizers are already planning for next year, with ideas to expand the festival to include adaptive rowing categories for athletes with disabilities and perhaps even international teams. The success of this year's Rowfest underscores the enduring power of such events to unite people, promote health, and celebrate the natural beauty of places like Ford Lake. In a world often divided, gatherings like this remind us of the simple joys of shared experiences on the water.

For those who missed it, mark your calendars—Rowfest is set to return, promising more thrills, more community, and more reasons to row together. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a curious onlooker, Ford Lake in Ypsilanti offers a welcoming wave to all. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full CBS News Article at:
[ https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/rowfest-ford-lake-ypsilanti/ ]