MATAWAN, NJ — On August 29, the Matawan and Keyport historical societies will host a unique event: The Great Whaleboat Race of 2026.
Three local towns — Matawan, Aberdeen and Keyport — will hold a rowing competition across Lake Lefferts.
In honor of Capt. William Marriner's daring 1778 whaleboat raid in the historic town of Matawan, here is what they are planning:
Teams will paddle across Lake Lefferts, pick up the respective mayors of the three towns — Matawan Mayor Joseph Altomonte, Aberdeen Mayor Greg Cannon and Keyport Mayor Rose Araneo —from a floating dock, and row them safely back to shore.
The first team to return their mayor and raise their flag wins the coveted Golden Oar Trophy.
Each boat is going to be rowed by teams of first responders from each of the respective towns, according to John Lazar, a member of Matawan Historical Society and one of the organizers of the event.
The teams will be rowing in whaleboats.
5 - 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29 Lake Lefferts Park on Ravine Drive in Matawan. It's free to attend and watch.
For more info. on this unique event, contact: Recreation@matawanborough.com or matawanhistoricalsociety.org/event/the-great-whaleboat-races-of-2026/
Sponsored by Matawan Borough and the Matawan Historical Society with assistance from the Borough of Keyport, the Keyport Yacht Club and the Keyport Historical Society.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Matawan Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.