Examiner.com

While thousands of college students flock to the beach for Spring Break, hundreds more descend on Oak Ridge for a little time out on the lake.   It's practice time for the upcoming season of regatta rowing, a sport which is helping East Tennessee become a destination for rowers and their dedicated fans.  

Melton Hill Lake (a.k.a. the Clinch River) may seem like an unlikely hub for such a prestigious sport, but the flat water along the city's riverfront is nearly perfect for "sweeping" and "sculling."  Of course the warm climate helps,too!

Over the next few weeks, you will notice increased activity along Melton Lake Drive.  Right beside the city marina you'll find dozens of rowboats and trailers with the rowers likely close behind.  From the early morning hours until late afternoon the rowers take to the water working to master their craft and be ready for competitions which start in just a few weeks.

Rowing is a beautiful and graceful sport. Watching the elegant motions of the rowers and the boats smooth trip along the water is easy along this stretch of water.   A paved greenway runs alongside Melton Hill Lake for several miles.  In the middle of everything is a great playground for the kids, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables and even a fitness walk.  If you get hungry, try out the New China Palace Restaurant or the Flatwater Grill, located on either end of the rowing course.

If watching the practice runs gets you in the mood for more rowing, the Southern Intercollegiate Rowing Association Regatta is just a few weeks away, April 17th-18th.  Dozens of college rowing teams make this a premier rowing event, one which you generally can watch for free!

For more information on rowing activities throughout the year check out the Oak Ridge Rowing Association's Website.  Melton Lake Drive is easily accessible from Edgemoor Road and the Oak Ridge Turnpike.