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This July, Ford Lake in Ypsilanti Township will take center stage as one of the country’s top rowing venues during RowFest 2025, part of the US Rowing Summer National Championships. While the races will draw thousands of athletes and spectators to the area, two free community events make this national competition extra special: Learn to Row sessions open to both youth and adults.
These free sessions invite anyone curious about rowing to get out on the water, try the sport, and receive hands-on instruction from expert coaches. Hosted by Friends of Detroit Rowing, USRowing, and the Ann Arbor Sports Commission, these events are designed to be welcoming and beginner-friendly. It’s a fun way to experience rowing up close—no experience required.
Learn to Row – Dates and Details
📍 Location: Ford Lake Park, 9075 S Huron River Dr, Ypsilanti Township
💲 Cost: Free, but advance registration is required (space is limited)
Youth Session (ages 12–18):
🗓 Saturday, July 12 | 6:00–7:30 p.m.
🔗 Register here
Masters Session (adults 18+):
🗓 Friday, July 18 | 6:00–7:30 p.m.
🔗 Register here
What to Expect
Participants will learn the basics of rowing from coaches and experienced athletes with Friends of Detroit Rowing, a trusted local club with decades of experience introducing the sport to youth and adults in Southeast Michigan. The session includes:
- A safety overview
- A tour of rowing equipment and terminology
- On-water instruction in rowing shells
- Personalized coaching and teamwork practice
No prior experience is needed. The sessions are open to all genders and ability levels. Whether you’re 12 or 62, the goal is the same: have fun, learn something new, and enjoy being on the water.
Why Rowing?
“Rowing is an incredible sport that opens doors—whether it’s building fitness, community, or even college opportunities,” said Mike Gentile of Friends of Detroit Rowing. “These Learn to Row sessions are about breaking down barriers and showing people that rowing is for everyone.”
More Than Just a Race
RowFest 2025 is more than just a regatta. It’s a community celebration tied to the 2025 USRowing Summer National Championships, running over nine days in mid-July. The public is invited to watch championship races, check out food vendors, and explore waterfront activities at Ford Lake Park, now home to Michigan’s largest and most advanced rowing course.
The newly upgraded 2,000-meter Olympic-style course includes:
- Eight racing lanes
- Floating docks and platforms
- Anchors and submersible systems
- Professional design by the engineer behind the 1984 and 1996 Olympic courses
With these enhancements, Ford Lake is now one of just 13 championship-ready rowing venues in the country.
Everyone’s Welcome
“USRowing is thrilled to bring RowFest to the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor area,” said Jules Zane, Director of Experience & Partnership Marketing at US Rowing. “This event is about access, excitement, and bringing people of all ages into the rowing community. Whether you come to row, to cheer, or to just enjoy the lake—this event is for you.”
The Ann Arbor Sports Commission, which helped bring the event to life, hopes to see locals come out and try something new. “We’re proud to help host this national event and introduce the community to a sport that’s often seen but not always experienced,” said Meaghan Hughes, Director of the Commission.
Plan Your Visit
Learn to Row registration, race schedules, and full event details are available at
👉 annarbor.org/sports-commission/calendar/rowfest
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