Oak Ride’s gorgeous summer weather makes it the perfect destination for tournaments and races! Read on to learn all about the top three summer sporting events in Oak Ridge TN.
1. Big 12 Rowing Championship
Boasting 30 miles of calm water, Melton Hill Lake is one of the premier 2,000-meter rowing courses in the United States, and for the fourth year in a row, it will be the venue for the Big 12 Rowing Championship. Big 12 teams, as well as affiliate members for women’s rowing, will compete May 12-13, 2018. The champion will receive the league’s automatic bid to the NCAA Rowing Championships. Preliminary heats will be held from 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. on Saturday and the final heats are scheduled for 9 a.m. – noon on Sunday.
2. Tennessee Enduro Mountain Bike Race
Situated less than 15 miles from downtown Oak Ridge, Windrock Bike Park is home to some of North America’s most technically demanding enduro trails, and on June 17th, it will host the Tennessee Enduro. Enduro is a type of mountain bike racing in which the downhills are timed and the uphills are not. Attracting some of the best mountain bikers in the world, this Enduro World Series qualifier features uplifts, pedal transfers and 2,150′ drop. Registration for the event is open now and will be capped at 250 riders.
In addition to its world-class mountain bike trails, Windrock Park offers many other opportunities for outdoor adventures. Check out our comprehensive guide to things to do at Windrock Park for more information!
3. USA Cycling Individual Time Trial National Championships
On June 21, 2018, Oak Ridge will host a different type of biking event: the USA Cycling Individual Time Trial National Championships. These races will be held on a 6.9-mile stretch of roadway that runs alongside the beautiful Melton Hill Lake.
The women’s race will start at 9:15 a.m. and will include two laps, for a total distance of 13.96 miles. The men’s race will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will include three laps, for a total distance of 20.94 miles. Medal ceremonies for the winners will take place at 3:45 p.m. at Melton Lake Drive. The Individual Time Trial National Championships is great for spectators, as observers will be able to see athletes pass by multiple times from one location.
Looking for more wonderful events in Oak Ridge TN? Bookmark our Events Calendar, so you’ll always be up to date on the latest happenings in the Secret City!