On September 28, 2024, Bainbridge Island Rowing hosted the much-anticipated Brown Bear Cup, a day that truly highlighted the spirit of rowing and community. Sponsored by Brown Bear Car Wash, this event brought together five clubs from the Seattle and Kitsap area, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere at Eagle Harbor.
The regatta kicked off on a sunny, brisk morning with flat water, offering stunning views of Seattle in the distance. This free-entry race was a celebration of the fall rowing season, designed to bring crews together for a day of fun and camaraderie. Participants were treated to complimentary shirts, car washes, a breakfast filled with homemade goodies, and a 90% organic harvest-themed lunch, all hosted by Bainbridge Island Rowing. Notably, crews did not have to bring their own equipment, as everything was provided.
The event was a true community affair, with live drone footage capturing the excitement of the races and fun activities for families. The 3600m course at Eagle Harbor saw high-energy racing from start to finish, with hotseating of equipment and rowers adding to the dynamic atmosphere.
Races included both adult and junior events, showcasing rowers from ages 14 to their 80s. The Men's Jr8+ race was particularly thrilling, with the top two boats finishing within one second of each other. Bainbridge Island Rowing secured both first and second place, with the second-place boat making a remarkable gain at the big turn by navigating the best path.
The Women's Jr4x+ race was another highlight, with Commencement Bay narrowly edging out the competition by less than a second. Adult crews also delivered impressive performances, demonstrating resilience and determination, even when faced with challenges like a detached rigger mid-race.
Overall, the Brown Bear Cup was a resounding success, bringing together the rowing and non-rowing communities for a memorable day of sport and fellowship. We look forward to many more events like this in the future, continuing to foster the love of rowing and community spirit.
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