Lifeguards Rowed New Jersey Coast to Statue of Liberty
Two former lifeguards completed a 155-mile charity row along the coast in September 2026.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Philanthropy
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In September 2026, former Upper Township Beach Patrol lifeguards Ryan Fisher and Kyle Rumaker completed a six-day, 155.1-mile rowing journey from Cape May Point to the Statue of Liberty. The effort served to honor the nation's 250th anniversary and raised over $14,000 for charity.
Why it matters
The rowers aimed to generate financial support for the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association and a beach patrol scholarship program. This endurance feat followed a historical route established by predecessors in 2007.
The rowers completed 62,000 strokes over 155.1 miles, despite a 5-inch crack in their lifeboat caused by a thunderstorm near Brigantine.
The players
Ryan Fisher
He is a former Upper Township Beach Patrol lifeguard who participated in the rowing journey.
Kyle Rumaker
He is a former Upper Township Beach Patrol lifeguard who co-led the rowing expedition.
Upper Township Beach Patrol
This is a lifeguard organization that serves the coastal community and supported the rowers.
American Shore & Beach Preservation Association
This organization advocates for the health and sustainability of coastal environments.
The details
Fisher and Rumaker maintained progress by rowing three miles offshore to avoid significant swells and utilized an RV for land-based logistics. The final segments of the journey were completed with support and escorts from various local beach patrols and individuals.
Timeline
The trip began on the Monday before Labor Day in late August 2026.
The rowers completed the six-day journey in September 2026.
Bill Handley and Rod Tice previously rowed to the Statue of Liberty in 2007.
Market Landscape
This effort follows the precedent set by the 2007 row to the Statue of Liberty by Bill Handley and Rod Tice. The recent journey continues the tradition of utilizing offshore endurance challenges to spotlight regional beach preservation and local support organizations.
Residents and supporters can continue to contribute to the charities supported by the rowers via their dedicated portal. The success of the campaign ensures continued funding for local beach patrol scholarships and ongoing coastal preservation efforts.
The takeaway
Large-scale endurance events can effectively drive significant awareness and funding for local community causes. Those looking to organize similar charity efforts should prioritize logistical support and safety protocols when planning long-distance nautical routes.
Further reading
For more information on regional charitable initiatives, visit the Philanthropy section.
More information
To donate or learn more about the expedition, visit the donation and information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ocean City Sentinel ‣ Ocean City, NJ Local News, Sports and Real Estate.
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