The Crossing
Register for the 2022 Crossing here!
It all began many years ago, when O'SAIL assembled a great organizational team to discuss the possibility of establishing The Crossing. Thanks to lots of creative and dedicated lake residents, that original plan is still in place. The never ending mission of this team is to make sure everyone has fun while ensuring the safety of all involved.
To all of those volunteers that support our event, a great big thank you.
To all past participants we look forward to seeing you again.
And to those of you that have never seen The Crossing, please join in the fun, 9am on the 2nd Saturday in August, at The Pointe/Morningstar Marina South of Eatons Ferry Bridge.
Please remember to spread the word that the auto traffic on the bridge that morning is limited to one lane, and all boat traffic under the bridge is closed from 8:30am until the end of the event, usually about 11:30. We appreciate the communities support on these traffic changes
Swimmers and non-powered vessels traverse the one mile open water span adjacent to Eaton’s Ferry Bridge, starting at Morningstar Marina and ending at Watersview Restaurant.
Swimming across Lake Gaston isn’t your thing? No Problem! The Crossing also includes a bridge walk! Participants walk across Eaton’s Ferry Bridge from Morningstar Marina to Watersview.
Note: Powered vessels are not allowed to participate.
Additional Information
The Crossing - 2nd Saturday of August
The Eaton Ferry Bridge is the place to be for a morning of fun for the entire family. The Crossing begins promptly at 9 am. Registration begins at 8:00 am.
THE CROSSING is an annual event for the Lake Gaston Community and is sponsored by O’SAIL. The goal is to encourage the Lake Gaston population to annually get in the water and join others in a non-motorized crossing of the lake in mass. THE CROSSING will occur in a protected area adjacent to the Eaton Ferry Bridge secured by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.
THE CROSSING requires registration of all participants. There is a pre-registration fee of $25.00 or $30.00 the day of the event. Upon completion of the event, participants will receive complimentary fruit and water at the finish and limited edition t-shirt. (Note: only pre-registered participants can be assured to get a t-shirt)
The three classes of participants are:
SWIMMERS
under 13 years of age must have signed life guard statement that they have a proven ability to swim the distance or be accompanied by an adult throughout the swim.
must wear swim cap for visibility, swim caps will be provided at registration check-in.
NON-MOTORIZED VESSELS
All riders must wear PFD.
Can be individual or team entry
Can use commercial or self-made vessel. All vessels must be water sound and may be disqualified by officials at the entrance area if they are deemed to be unsafe or not able to make the distance.
THE WAVERS
Beyond the usual non-motorized water vessels, we’re encouraging you to use your imagination. The WAVER category was created to encourage small or large groups to cross together in the most creative ways possible. Some examples might be connected by noodles or even floating atop their own creation of a boat, barge, raft, etc.
How can you join the fun? Register for the event and show up the day of the event ready to have fun with your team and your creation.
