Another Blackburn Challenge is officially in the books.
In what was the 40th anniversary of the unique, 20-mile boat racing journey throughout Cape Ann, a variety of different classes hit the waters on Saturday morning for a wildly successful edition of the marquee Gloucester staple.
“Everything went really well. The event went very smooth, the conditions were favorable all around, and generally speaking there were some pretty good times,” said Cape Ann Rowing Club president and race director Bob Blair.
The event — which this year also served as the USA Canoe Ocean Racing (Surfski) National Championship — fielded 160 boats, with 145 of those officially reaching the finish line. Of those 145 finishers, it was the single kayak male competitors who led the charge.
Tyron Maher was the first to finish, clocking in at 2:32:04 in his kayak to narrowly edge out runner-up Patrick Dolan (2:33:04). Jesse Lishchuk (2:31.21), Lachie Harkness (2:40.04) and Nathan Grocholski Jr. (2:41.56) rounded out the top five, all rowing their own kayaks as well.
An outrigger six canoe had a particularly strong showing, too, with Mark Koumans and his crew finishing eighth overall in 2:45.41. Overall, 19 different boats came in under three hours, an impressive total compared to most years.
“We did not set any (time) records but had some really fast paddlers and we had a great turnout of spectators which was awesome,” said Blair. “So overall a whole lot of enthusiasm.”
Senator Bruce Tarr presented a special citation to the Cape Ann Rowing Club commemorating the 40th anniversary of the event. The Blackburn Challenge was also able to raise significant funds for the Addison Gilbert Hospital Cancer Center.
“We appreciate all the support from our sponsors, the high school … just a lot of support for this event and the city of Gloucester and without that it couldn’t really happen,” added Blair. “It was a total success all around … the Blackburn is alive and well for the future and we’ll be right back at it next year.”
For complete results from this year’s Blackburn Challenge, including breakdowns by divisions, please visit https://www.iresultslive.com/results/?op=overall&racename=BlackburnChallenge&eid=683.
Sports Editor Nick Giannino may be contacted at 978-675-2712 or ngiannino@northofboston.com.