Parent info:
Bus arrives at the HS at 3:30am—students should arrive 10 minutes early
Spectator parking: Google Maps | Apple Maps
Racing:
Time trials begin at ~7:30am (more details to come)
HELPFUL info FOR NOVICE PARENTS:
The bus leaves early so SET MULTIPLE ALARMS. If your kid misses the bus, they can’t race. If your kid can’t race, the whole boat may have to scratch. If the whole boat has to scratch, it's misery for everyone.
Kensington is a huge animal preserve. There are no street lights and it is INCREDIBLY DARK! If you have a headlamp, bring it, especially if you're on tent setup.
It's a good, brisk 10-minute walk from the parking area to the beach on a paved and not terrible trail. But if you're exhausted or trying to outrun an approaching storm, it's not short so BRING A WAGON! There is no running home between races and it's 20+ minute drive to the nearest restaurant. There are often food trucks but they're not a certainty. BRING A COOLER AND CHAIR!
Umbrellas and pop-up tents are prohibited on the beach. This is strictly (and weirdly) enforced. You could put up a tent on the grassy area, but you will be sacrifiching the best view so BRING YOUR RAINCOAT!
So of the worst sunburns ever seen have happened on the beach at this regatta. While it's still early in the season we're exiting winter in Michigan so do not be complacent. YOU AND YOUR KIDDOS NEED TO USE SUNSCREEN!
There will be a tent selling all kinds of regatta merch. Your kids will want something. BRING $$$.
GIVE EXTRA TIME to find your way and please be kind to the parking attendants. They are volunteers who love their kids and this sport so please don't run them over.
VOLUNTEER and get involved! Meet other people who are also wondering how this has become their life These are now your people :)
RESPECT THE BOUNDARIES! Being able to get the boats on and off the water efficiently helps keep the event running smoothly and as close to on-time as possible.
Bring CAMERAS, PORTABLE CHARGERS, and BINOCULARS. These are your new best friend. There are going to be fleeting moments and epic memories that you will want to grab with both hands
(This most excellent advice shared by the wonderful Novice Liaison: Mandy Dickerson!)