On Sunday, August 6th, 2017, the 9th Annual Dillon Challenge will be held on Lake Dillon in Frisco, Colorado. In celebration of the wonderful, natural environment this area offers, the regatta will host guests far and wide to spectate and take part.
Throughout the day there will be a number of different races for canoes, kayaks, rowing shells, paddleboats, and standup (SUP) paddleboards, with races commencing at 6:00am.
What is the 9th Annual Lake Dillon Challenge?
Dillon Reservoir is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, boasting 26 miles of breathtaking shoreline surrounded by a spectacular mountainous backdrop. It is this spot in Summit County that gives the Annual Dillon Challenge its tagline of being the “highest and most scenic regatta” you’ll find in America, and is something you definitely won’t want to miss.
This annual regatta is carried out to celebrate the environmentally-friendly recreational uses that take place on the lake and in its surrounding areas. All the vessels taking part in the races are powered by sheer muscle, strength, and determination.
The set course is 5 kilometers long and starts at Frisco Bay Marina before journeying up toward Crown Point past Sentinel Island. Once there, participants will have to turn around and head back toward the bay, battling it out against the other competitors for a top spot.
Those finishing in first, second, or third place will receive a Lake Dillon Challenge medal, which will be presented at an award ceremony once all the races have been completed. Races will run from 6:00-9:00am, so participants and spectators will need to rise early to catch the action!
How Can You Take Part in the Regatta?
If you’re interested in putting your strength to the test, you can still enter through the Frisco Rowing Club’s website. The race welcomes all categories of rowing shells, including novice (those with a year or less of experience), open, and recreational shells. Participants can also rent paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks from Frisco Bay Marina, however, you will need to reserve these in advance.
Previous Challenges
Over the years, the Lake Dillon Annual Challenge has grown in popularity. For example, in 2015, approximately 80 rowers took part in the event, ranging from the age of 15 to 75 years old. One of the race winners was 15-year-old Ethan Spetnagel who participated in the men’s singles rowing race which was 2.5-miles long. Even though he was one of the youngest contenders in the field and achieved the fastest elapsed time, the handicap placed on ages meant he just lost out to 51-year-old Chris Yun.
This year’s 9th Annual Lake Dillon Challenge looks set to bring even more exciting results, and will be a great day for all involved. To make the most of it, you might like to arrange to spend the day by Lake Dillon, enjoying everything it has to offer once the races have finished. From the bay, you can embark on hikes and cycle rides, or you may even want to have a go at paddleboarding yourself. Alternatively, for a more relaxed afternoon, you might want to kick back and relax in one of the town’s many restaurants, before exploring the history of the area in Frisco’s Historic Park and Museum. The possibilities are endless!
If you’re thinking about heading over to the regatta, why not make an entire weekend of it by booking a stay at our boutique hotel – Frisco Inn? With a wide range of facilities on offer, including exceptional food and indulgent spa treatments, it’s ideal for a romantic getaway or family vacation.
