CROFTON – The 2024 edition of the Crofton Dam Race is scheduled for July 27 at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area near Crofton.
The unique adventure triathlon along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake has grown to become a major draw for racers of all skill levels from Nebraska and beyond and is gearing up to host nearly 300 participants this year.
Marsh said the Dam Race — now in its seventh year — has seen participants from 24 states so far during its history.
Racers — either as individuals or teams — will start the triathlon at the Lewis and Clark SRA by kayaking 1.5 miles on the lake in place of an open water swim, then running a 5K through the Weigand Area Campground and finishing up by bicycling 12 miles along scenic, rolling Missouri River hills into Crofton’s downtown district.
Marsh said triathlon participants feel proud of themselves after crossing the finish line.
When finished, the racers appreciate a celebration on Main Street in Crofton that includes live music, a barbecue meal and an awards ceremony. Spectators are welcome to cheer on the participants.
The Dam Race committee, made up of volunteers from Crofton, have added extra activities through the years, including a half marathon, a 12mile bicycle race and a kids’ triathlon hosted by the Good Samaritan Society of Bloomfield.
A new addition this year is the option to compete on an electric bicycle in the triathlon or bicycle race. The Dam Race has also partnered with the Nebraska Army National Guard to have a helicopter fly in and land at about 7:15 a.m. during the event’s opening ceremony.
There also will be activities available for the public to participate in on July 26 as well, including a spaghetti feed from 5-8 p.m. at the Crofton Haymarket.
During the spaghetti feed, the kids’ triathlon will start at 6 p.m., with registration from 5:15-5:45 p.m. The race, for children ages 8-13, will feature a half-mile run, a one-mile bicycle ride and a swim around the Crofton Municipal Swimming Pool.
Proceeds from the Dam Race — a fundraising event in partnership with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission — benefit recreation projects in and near Crofton, such as a proposed walking/biking trail at the Lewis and Clark SRA.
The Dam Race is hosted by a volunteer committee in coordination with the Lewis and Clark SRA and Weigand Marina. More information on the Dam Race, including how to register, may be found online at www.CroftonsDamRace.
