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, The Penny Lewis Cup. Since then, this race has drawn a record number of entries, becoming a cherished challenge within the rowing community. At our inaugural celebration of Penny, her daughter Karen joined us to celebrate and reminded us of 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 bursts into a brilliant tide of pink, turning race day into an unforgettable celebration of energy, joy, and solidarity. But this tradition goes far beyond fun and flair. It’s a powerful reminder that, beyond the thrill of competition, we’re part of a united rowing family, rallying together for breast cancer awareness and support.
We invite every crew to get your pink on—don bold costumes, unleash your imagination, and show the spirit that makes this event so special.
Fun fact: You can row dressed as a Shrimp. It’s been done—and done fabulously.
Volunteer Judges will be stationed along the course, taking in every splash of creativity. The standout crews will be honored during our Awards Ceremony with well-earned recognition.
Congratulations to our past Costume Contest champions:
2023 – Lake Stevens Rowing Club Pink Ladies
2024 – Lake Stevens Rowing Club Pink Ladies
2025 – Who dares to challenge these reigning Queens of Pink?
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. |