Rockland Rowing to Host 4th Annual Masters Regatta: A day of traditional masters racing, relays, and community celebration

NYACK, NY (April 29, 2026) – Rockland Rowing Association is excited to announce the 4th Annual Masters Regatta at Rockland Lake Park taking place on Saturday, June 27, 2026. This year’s regatta will return to traditional age-group racing and feature the classic masters racing structure alongside traditional 1000m sprints, and the popular Rockland Relays.

The highlights of the day will include: 

Thrilling Rockland Relays: teams consisting of 2x, 4+, 4x, and 8+ competing in 500m sprints in relay fashion. Teams will consist of two coxswains and 18 rowers - half of which must be women. Composite teams are allowed, but this is also a great test of any club’s depth and strategic planning. With the racing visible to spectators, we expect this to be an exciting event. 

Traditional age-based flights in all boat classes: Returning to our original format, there will continue to be awards for all age category winners! 

Professionally Designed Course: 1000m course featuring 10 buoyed lanes with stake boats, promising fair, and competitive racing. 

Scenic Venue: Rockland Lake State Park offers stunning views and a perfect backdrop for both competitors and spectators. 

Professional Management: With expert timing and management, participants can look forward to a seamless racing experience. 

Accessibility: Excellent trailer access and ample parking make participation hassle-free. Located just 20 miles from New York and minutes from the Tappan Zee Bridge, it’s conveniently accessible. 

Local Amenities: Enjoy the charm of Nyack and the broader Rockland County with its array of dining and hotel options. 

Boat Rentals: Available for those in need, ensuring everyone has a chance to compete. 

Rockland Rowing is partnering with Wintech / King Racing for equipment. 

“The Rockland Masters Regatta continues to grow each year, and we’re excited to welcome crews back to Rockland Lake for another great day of racing,” says Justin Bohan of the Rockland Rowing Association. “With our traditional age-based racing, the Rockland Relays, and the chance for rowers from across the region to come together, it’s become a special event we look forward to, and we know our participants do too. 

“After trying a different racing format last year and hearing feedback from crews, we’re excited to return to traditional age-group racing,” adds Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, President of Rockland Rowing. “It’s the classic format rowers know and love and we’re looking forward to welcoming both returning and new crews to the water.” 

Online registration is currently open with a deadline of June 13, 2026. For more information, visit www.rocklandrowing.org. For participants looking to rent boats, you can easily do so through Wintech by heading to https://store.wintechracing.com  

About Rockland Rowing Association 

Founded in 2002 as the River Rowing Association (RRA) by Peter Fernberger and Bronwyn Woodhead along the banks of the Hudson River in Nyack, NY, RRA began with a single eight-person shell and a handful of high school rowers. In 2003, Peter Klose and Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky joined as directors, converting RRA into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and expanding programming for youth and adults. 

In 2013, the construction of the new Tappan Zee Bridge prompted the group’s move to Rockland Lake. In 2016, they became Rockland Rowing Association, reflecting their new home and commitment to serving a broader community. Today, RRA has nearly 100 rowers and offers a wide range of programs for residents of Rockland, Bergen, and Westchester counties. 

Rowing has been part of Rockland County since the late 1800s, with clubs like the Nyack Rowing Association and Piermont Rowing Club competing annually on Rockland Lake. The group’s mission - to improve people’s lives through the sport of rowing – combined with a desire to build on the legacy of the organization, has enabled many members to experience rowing, whether as a path to college, a way to stay fit, or a source of lifelong friendships. 

Is anything happening with Friends of Jaclyn this year?

Friends of Jaclyn, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children with brain tumors. Whether you're testing your rowing your way to the finish line, cheering on the athletes, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty and festive atmosphere, it’s guaranteed to be a fun-filled day for all.