Considered the “Boston Marathon” of the open water racing world, the Blackburn Challenge is a 20-mile open water circumnavigation of Cape Ann, Massachusetts.  “Challengers” row or paddle seaworthy watercraft in a range of classes including Banks dories, fixed seat singles and doubles, multi-oars with/without coxswains, sliding seat tour/race rowing singles & doubles, single & double touring kayaks, single & double racing kayaks, single & double surfskis, and OC-1 through OC-6 outrigger canoes.

Over the years the event has grown in scale and stature from a small local competition between a group of Gloucester-based Banks Dory rowers to an international-caliber event with classes covering all forms of seaworthy human-powered watercraft.  Challengers travel from as far away as Africa and Australia to participate each year — some arrive with record-breaking ambitions, and some arrive to simply test their mettle in one of the most grueling open water endurance competitions on the planet.

Similar to the Boston Marathon, each section of the Blackburn Challenge course features its own particular characteristics and considerations.  The Annisquam, Lobster Pot Alley, Halibut Point, Sandy Bay, the Back Shore, Eastern Point, and the final push across Gloucester Harbor each require unique strategies and tactics to succeed.  Can you meet the challenge and cross the finish line at Pavilion Beach?  Row it, paddle it…if you can!!!

For more information visit https://capeannrowingclub.com