Watertown Rotary’s Kayak Around Kampeska Draws Record Turnout to Lake Kampeska

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Watertown Rotary Club celebrated its largest turnout yet for the annual Kayak Around Kampeska event this weekend, drawing more than 50 kayakers and paddle‑boarders from at least five zip codes to Lake Kampeska for the 13‑ to 14‑mile paddle around the shoreline.

Rotary members say 44 kayaks launched Saturday morning from Stokes Thomas Park, with 23 participants completing the full route, which typically takes four to five hours depending on weather and experience. Codington County Search & Rescue followed the group throughout the event to ensure safety, and participants were reminded to bring their own life jackets.

Before heading out, kayakers were treated to a light breakfast, and Charcuterie Element provided Honey Lime Fruit Salad cups as on‑lake refreshments.

Event Honors Greg Blow

This year’s event carried special meaning as Rotary honored Greg Blow, a longtime volunteer who passed away earlier this year. Blow was known for his dedication to service, goodwill, and international outreach — particularly his work supporting the School of St. Jude in Tanzania.

In his memory, Rotary accepted free‑will donations for the school, which works to provide education and fight poverty. More information about the school is available at schoolofstjude.org, and a tribute video created by the school can be viewed at youtu.be/_l7lzyAGIaY.

Rotary leaders described Blow as “a true example of what it means to be a Rotarian,” noting that his efforts made a lasting impact on students and families abroad.

Community Response

Participants praised the event’s organization and safety measures. One kayaker wrote that it was only her second or third time on a kayak, but she “felt safe the whole time and appreciated the water and snacks.”

Others thanked Rotary for hosting and encouraged the club to continue the tradition.

Rotary is asking attendees to share feedback on how they heard about the event and where future promotion should be directed.

Access Points and Support

For those not completing the full loop, volunteers were stationed at public access points around the lake to help transport kayakers and their equipment back to their vehicles. Rotary shared a map showing the starting point at Stokes Thomas Park and multiple blue‑star access locations around Kampeska.

Rotary’s Message

The club thanked all participants for braving the heat and contributing to the event’s biggest turnout yet. Rotary members say they hope the momentum continues and are already looking ahead to next year’s paddle. https://www.facebook.com/RotaryWatertownSd

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