Start/Pre-race Meeting: August 10, 2024 about 10 am. Pre-race meeting is 9:15 am in open field near shelter.
Level: 3
Distance: 14mi
Check In: at the Group campsite (space 10/11). Please check in on Friday if you are staying overnight.
Director: Herbie Weisse and Carrie Weisse
Phone: Herbie Weisse 425.263.0520
Carrie Weisse 425.232.7858
Email for questions: Herbie Weisse and Carrie Weisse
The Shaw Island Race made its informal debut in 1978 when Don Cameron & Nick Fahey challenged sailors in a circumnavigation of the island and won. The following year, 1979, a dozen kayaks and rowing shells raced the loop, marking the official beginning of what is now the longest running people-powered boat race in the Pacific Northwest. Since then, participation has ranged from a handful to a hundred.
Race Requirements
Must be able to self rescue.
Wear or have life vest attached to boat. Youth under 18 must wear vest.
Must have whistle.
Bring cell phone in waterproof case. Herb Weisse will be emergency number at 425-263-0520. Be aware cell phone is limited, particularly on the south side of the island.
Must assist anyone who flips. Stay with paddler/rower until they are in their boat.
Getting to the Start/Ferry Reservations
Catch the Island ferry at Anacortes. On the day of the race there is a 5:55 am and 7:20 am sailing from Anacortes to Shaw. Please check ferry schedule for other options. From the dock head south to Indian Cove. It is critical to make a reservation to Shaw. Ferry schedules can be found at www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries. Ferry to return to Anacortes is first come/first serve. No cost to make a reservation if you cancel one day in advance.
Race Registration
Please register online for the race. It is OK to signup and decide not to attend the race. Online registration is free and closes at 9 pm on Thursday August 8th. On site registration is $10.
Race Course
The Round Shaw Race is a world-class 14 mile event which will present a challenge for even the most accomplished open water racer. There is nearly always some rough water and strong tidal currents during the race. At the same time, island ‘ease’ dominates the weekend. Racers can choose their direction (clockwise or counterclockwise).
Course Record
Rob O’Brien/Jeff Knakal, 1:39:45 in 2003 in a 2X.
Awards
Ribbons awarded for 1st-3rd by category. Please see Carrie or Herb Weisse for your ribbon as come off the water. We are assuming many participates will want to get in line for the ferry immediately after the race.
Camping
Soundrowers has reserved the group campsite (combined sites #10 and 11) for Friday and Saturday. Fee for one day is $20/person, or $30/person for both nights, plus $16.55 (including tax) to park overnight. People are not allowed to sleep in their vehicle at the campsite. Please pay one of the race directors when you arrive. We have space for 10 people. The facilities at the park are primitive with only cold water and pit toilets. A marine site and cycling campsite are also available. You must arrive by watercraft or bicycle. Campsite fees have increased substantially, sorry. Checkout time is 1 pm.
We are having a potluck for those staying overnight on Saturday. Please bring a dish to share with the group.