Mar 27, 2025
Women can learn, advance their fishing skills at BOW events
BOW is offering Introduction to Fishing and Fishing: Next Steps events at three locations each.
Read More
By Heidi Marsh, Crofton’s Dam Race
Registration just opened for Nebraska’s most scenic triathlon – Crofton’s Dam Race – set for July 26 at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area.
Now in its eighth year, the race continues to blend small town charm and new traditions, all while benefiting the development of a walk-bike trail at the recreation area just north of Crofton.
So, as you plan your summer schedule, here are eight reasons you should sign up at CroftonsDamRace.com to participate:
Crofton’s Dam Race is actually a series of three races:
Plus, electric bike options have been added to both the triathlon and the bike race.
Crofton’s Dam Race kicks off with a 1.5-mile kayak race along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake, which is a fun switch up from the traditional open water swim of most sprint triathlons.
Nebraska Game and Parks provides kayaks for racers who don’t bring their own, allowing racers to travel in from all over the country to participate in this unique triathlon.
From Austin Powers to Barbie, and usually at least one pickle station in between, the dozen water stations along the route into Crofton keep racers hydrated and motivated. Families and volunteers who run these stations are competing for the best theme, so they get creative.
Racers from age 8 and up can participate in Crofton’s Dam Race. Children age 8 to 13 can compete in an untimed race July 25 that includes a half-mile run, 1-mile bike ride and a swim around the pool.
Teens age 14 to 18 can compete as a three-person team in the dam race at a discounted rate.
The race also celebrates older generation racers with a 70+ medal. In 2024, four racers took home that medal.
Whether you compete all the time or are just starting your competition journey, Crofton Dam Race is right for you.
Crofton claims to host the most unique finish line party in Nebraska with Bloody Mary’s and the largest collection of refurbished hay pulleys in the country.
The race finishes on Main Street in front of the Crofton Haymarket – home of the Lewis & Clark Pulley Museum – where owners Doug and Juliet de Shazer are ready to serve up a party. Racers are greeted with comradery, live music, delicious food, locally brewed beer and Crofton’s Best Dam Bloody Mary, a secret recipe and fan favorite.
Every year, the “Spirit of the Jorts” award is given to a racer who showcases the true spirit of the race by overcoming an obstacle, helping another racer, or simply embracing the race in a new way. This award was inspired by local Neal Neuhalfen, who raced in cut-off jean shorts – known as jorts – the first years of the race. Neal still volunteers at the finish line … in his jorts, of course.
Half marathon finishers and winners go home with something special on race day. The medals and champion plaques are created by a student-run medal fabrication business in conjunction with the Crofton High’s industrial tech program.
Crofton’s Dam Race starts at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake, just a few miles upstream from Gavin’s Point Dam.
The tiny town of Crofton, population 800, claims to be the “friendliest little town by a dam site,” leading to a culture of friendly quips and fun. Stop in at the Dam Fish Shack, where the staff will announce over the loudspeaker, “Carla, your dam order is ready.”
The quips are silly, but the beauty of our river region is no joke. The rolling hills, chalkstone bluffs, and scenic sites make this race a truly breathtaking experience.
Don’t miss your chance to experience it all. Register or learn more at CroftonsDamRace.com.
Crofton’s Dam Race is a nonprofit fundraising event that started in 2018 and has pledged more than $40,000 in proceeds to Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area for the development of a walk-bike trail at the Weigand Area.
