Runners, bikers and kayakers can celebrate the news that Crofton’s Dam Race, set for July 25, 2020, has been approved by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, as well as the North Central District Health Department.

The race committee, comprised of local volunteers and leadership at the Lewis & Clark State Rec Area, has been working closely with both departments to establish a safety plan and procedures to ensure the safety of participants, volunteers and spectators. Visit CroftonsDamRace.com to review the plan.

“It’s been refreshing to work with leadership at the Nebraska Game & Parks,” says Heidi Marsh, race co-director. “We’re fortunate to have such a beautiful park near Crofton. I can’t wait to introduce it to more racers every year!”

The partnership between Crofton’s Dam Race and the Lewis & Clark SRA runs deeper than just a hosting site. The race committee recently voted to donate proceeds towards a safe pedestrian trail in the Weigand and Burbach Area. “Having a partnership like this is one of many factors that make the park successful,” says Tyler Wulf, superintendent at Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area. “A trail of this type will be used by many and for generations to come.”

“I was introduced to the Park a couple years ago at the first Dam Race and fell in love with the area and the people,” says Martha Fagg, three-time race participant from Vermillion, SD. “ Our biking and kayaking group is mostly 50 and older and we’re very confident that the Crofton people will host a safe outdoor event. We already have three signed up for July!”

Now in it’s third year, Crofton’s Dam Race includes three events. The main attraction is the triathlon that kicks off at the Lewis & Clark State Rec Area with a 1.5 mile kayak (instead of swimming), a 5k run, and a 12-mile bike ride to Main Street Crofton. Last year, a half marathon and 12-mile bike ride were added to the line up. To have a successful race, the committee would like to have at least 50 registrations by July 10. Athletes can register at AllSportCentral.com or visit CroftonsDamRace.com for more information.

 Crofton’s Dam Race is hosted by a volunteer committee in coordination with the Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area (SRA) and Weigand Marina. Proceeds from the race will benefit a safe pedestrian trail in the SRA. For more details, call Johnnie Ostermeyer at (402) 508-0224 or Heidi Marsh (605) 660-4498 or visit CroftonsDamRace.com.