Annual €˜Lake Loop' Bike, Run, Paddle to Support Lake Hopatcong

Published on September 18, 2018

Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards available to rent for Oct. 7 event

The annual €˜Lake Loop' for the benefit of Lake Hopatcong will be Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018, at Hopatcong State Park. The event, hosted by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, will feature biking, running and paddling challenges, and will include local food, a beer tent and live entertainment.

Participants may choose to bike, run, paddle, or tackle as many challenges as they wish. Cyclists may choose from marked routes of 20, 40 or 62 miles around Lake Hopatcong. There will also be a 5K and a 1.5-mile trail run on State Park grounds, as well as a 2.5-mile paddle course on the lake. Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards will be available to rent during the registration process.

Lake Hopatcong provides a beautiful setting for this event, said Lake Loop Chairwoman Becky Rubenstein. Whether you're a competitive cyclist, an avid runner or someone who just enjoys getting out in nature, you can choose your challenge and go at your own pace.

Event times will be staggered to allow participants to choose one or any combination of activities. For the first time this year, Strava bike timing will be available for hill climbs along the bike routes, with awards for the top performers. In addition, the 5K will be a sanctioned and timed event, with awards presented.

Live the Lake NJ, the event's main sponsor, will match donations made before Saturday, Sept. 22, up to $5,000. All participants will be given an online fundraising page that can be shared via email or social media. Sponsorship opportunities are also available, beginning at $100.

Individuals or teams can register or donate at lakeloop.org. The pre-registration fee is $45 until midnight Friday, Oct. 5, after which the fee will be $65. Participants may register on the day of the event, beginning at 7 a.m. The fee includes participation in any or all activities, as well as a T-shirt, food, drink and live entertainment.

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The Lake Hopatcong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting the lake environment and enhancing the lake experience by bringing together public and private resources to encourage a culture of sustainability and stewardship on and around New Jersey's largest lake, for this and future generations. To learn more, visit lakehopatcongfoundation.org.