Read the daily diary of the Ann Arbor Sports Commission team, made up of Meaghan, Mike, Zach, and Hannah, on how they powered through hosting this 10-day international rowing event.    

Day 1 – Let the fun begin  

4:30 a.m. wake-up call! Meaghan is first in line at Starbucks promptly at 5am. Hannah sets up Volunteer HQ and prepares to welcome our wonderful volunteers. Mike fuels the boats and Zach walks around and ensures everything is in working order and ready for the next 10 days. 

The venue came alive as youth athletes arrived for registration and practice.   

Day 2 - The Battle of the Speakers  

What should have been a quick speaker setup turned into an after-hours challenge. We stayed late trying different cords, unplugging and re-plugging everything, and pressing what felt like every button imaginable and watching you tube videos and googling solutions.   

After plenty of frustration and a lot of trial and error, Hannah finally cracked the code and got the speakers working. The sound was back, the mystery was solved, and everyone went home relieved (and ready to never look at those speakers again). Unfortunately for Hannah, she is now always in charge of the speakers.   

Day 4 – Generator Goes out  

Zach goes to turn on the generator for the water truck. It is not working. Mike and Zach try to fix it but are unable. Zach goes to Lowes, probably his 5th trip this week, and purchases a new generator. They get it set up before anyone notices.   

Day 6 – Get the cooling towels  

Master athletes arrive, register, and hit the water for practice. Our team is excited for a new group of athletes to watch race, meet and cheer on. We slept in a little today and everyone seems to have a little extra pep in their step. It was sunny and hot today – our team is thankful for the cooling towels and tried to make them the hottest fashion accessory.   

Later in the day, strong winds picked up across Ford Lake Park, creating rough conditions near the starting dock and forcing racing to end early. Tents were rattling, hats were flying, and everyone got a reminder that Mother Nature always has the final say. Despite the unexpected early finish, the team adapted and kept spirits high.  

Day 7 – Adapting to the Unexpected  

We woke up to smoky skies from the Canadian wildfires, forcing delays due to poor air quality. Throughout the day, we stayed in close communication with USRowing, adjusted schedules, and focused on keeping athletes informed and safe. It was proof that The Sports Commission and US Rowing make a great team, changing delivery locations for breakfast and lunch, canceling volunteers, ambulance and more. Everyone staying in constant communication and doing what they can to ensure safety and that the continued days will run smoothly.   

Day 8 – Turning a Delay into an Opportunity  

With another air quality delay, our team, USRowing, and the Marriott at Eagle Crest quickly organized a reception featuring speakers, vendors, and a complimentary barbecue. It was great to see the Masters have a chance to mingle and enjoy time together.   

It wasn’t the day anyone planned, but thanks to amazing local partners, it became a memorable experience for everyone.  

Day 9 – Racing Returns…After the Skunk  

The air cleared, and we returned to Ford Lake Park—only to discover a skunk had taken up residence in the vendor tent.  

After an hour and a half of creative problem-solving (including testing whether it preferred NPR or Lady Gaga), Zach and Mike successfully coaxed our unexpected guest into a bin with snacks and released it safely into the woods with Hannah driving the golf cart as fast as she could—without anyone getting sprayed. Meaghan had an important job of taking videos and photographs!   

Day 10 – Learning Something New  

On the final day of racing, and a full slate of volunteers, Zach, Hannah and Meaghan enjoyed their time sitting in the shade and relaxing. Mike was always looking for something to keep him busy while we were dreaming about what it would feel like to sleep in until 7am tomorrow.   

Day 11 – Cleanup   

While cleaning up, our team reminisced about the last 10 days and how thankful we were. An event this long and the challenges we faced showed “We Play as a Team.”   

Learn more about RowFest | Connect with the Ann Arbor Sports Commission Team