National swimming and rowing events to bring thousands to Ypsi area

On the Ground Ypsilanti is an “embedded journalism” program covering the city and township of Ypsilanti. It is supported by Ann Arbor SPARK, the Center for Health and Research Transformation, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Engage @ EMU, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Washtenaw ISD.

The Ann Arbor Sports Commission is kicking off the summer with two big sporting events in the Ypsilanti area. The first, wrapping up July 4, is the USA Artistic Swimming (formerly known as “synchronized swimming”) Junior Olympics, held at Eastern Michigan University’s Jones Natatorium. The other is the return of the RowFest National Championship on Ford Lake in Ypsi Township July 10-19. Both events are bringing thousands of athletes and their families to the greater Ypsilanti area.

Meaghan Hughes, director of the sports commission, says the swim event alone brought about 1,000 athletes to town. Turnout will likely be larger for RowFest, an annual signature event organized by USRowing, the national governing body for rowing.  The sports commission has been working with local businesses to make sure that athletes and their families know where they can get out and take in local food, arts, and culture. 

“I think USRowing created a great job partnership with us, the Eagle Crest Marriott, and some local businesses and breweries, promoting racers to go and socialize together, to have a beer, to get out into the community after a day of being on Ford Lake all day,” Hughes says.

The first half of RowFest will feature youth athletes, while the second half will feature adult “master” rowers. Community members are welcome to attend and view all the races, though there will be a fee to park at Ford Lake Park during the festival.

Sports equipment manufacturer Concept2 will also host a fundraiser during RowFest, vowing to donate at least $10,000 to local nonprofits. Community members can try a stationary rowing machine called an “erg,” and for each minute they row, Concept2 will make a donation to designated charities, including Ypsilanti-based Real Agape.

“There will be viewing opportunities all week. People can come watch the races, and we have a giant Jumbotron and food trucks. It’s very community-focused,” Hughes says.

More information about the Ann Arbor Sports Commission is available here.