The Race
The first official head race in the Pacific Northwest, Pink Ribbon Row kicks off Fall Racing Season with a 4,800 meter course on Lake Union.
Race Day: September 21, 2025
Since 1999, Seattle’s rowing community has been supporting breast cancer patients in a fun and competitive head race. Our mission becomes visible as Lake Union turns into various shades of pink from the many costumed rowers – each rowing with a purpose, driving to make a difference.
Race Schedule
| 5:30am | Packet pick-up at Gas Works Park |
| 6:45am | First boats launch |
| 7:30am | Racing begins |
| After the race | Gas Works Park for medals, coffee |
| Approx 11:am | Award Ceremony at Gas Works Park |
Race Location & Information
Go to Regatta Central for detailed information on
- Registration Information
- Coach and Coxswains Meeting
- Trailer Parking Reservations
Spectators join us at Gas Works Park and have a front-row seat to the race with great views from many park locations. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the pink celebration. There will be coffee and food too.
Race Course: 4800m
Penny Lewis Cup – Honoring a legend, Penny Lewis (1940-2023)
We would not exist today without Penny, her leadership in the rowing community and her kind, welcoming demeanor. As a breast cancer survivor, she had the vision of what this regatta could mean for so many in the PNW region over 20 years ago. Thanks to her determination, the support of Kathy Frederick in Portland, and the rowing clubs of our region she grew this event to what it is today.
In 2023, we honored Penny Lewis’s legacy by dedicating the Women’s Masters 8+ event as The Penny Lewis Cup. Since then, this race has drawn a record number of entries, becoming a cherished challenge within the rowing community. The inaugural two victories went to the Sammamish Rowing Association, marking a memorable start to this tradition. Penny’s daughter, Karen, joined us to celebrate and reminded us all of the strength and unity that define the rowing family: “Be strong, be forceful, and be a power to your boat, and in everything you do!”
Costume Contest
It’s time to go all out, because at our regatta, pink isn’t just a color, it’s a movement!
Each year, Lake Union transforms into a dazzling sea of pink, turning race day into an electrifying celebration of energy, joy, and camaraderie. This tradition isn’t just about fun, it’s a powerful reminder that, beyond the thrill of competition, we are all part of a supportive rowing family, united in our commitment to breast cancer awareness.
We invite every rower to ‘get pink’ and embrace the spirit of the event with bold costumes and imaginative gear, let your creativity shine!
Costumes are judged by a panel of volunteers, with winners receiving recognition and special promotions throughout the year!
Congratulations to our 2024 Costume Contest champions, Lake Stevens Rowing Club Pink Ladies! Will you be next?
Giving Thanks
Our event only happens due to our boathouse partners: Pocock Rowing Center, Lake Washington Rowing Club, Seattle Pacific University, College Club, and Lake Union Crew. Our community comes together to provide docks, parking, and start and finish line locations, all with a wonderful, “let’s make this happen!” attitude.
Previous Year Race Results
| 2024 | Pink Ribbon Row Race Results |
| 2023 | Pink Ribbon Row Race Results |
| 2022 | Row for the Cure Results |
| 2020-21 | Cancelled due to COVID |
| 2019 | Cancelled due to inclement weather. |