Racing the Docks: Red Bull Rush Delivery in Lake Geneva
When century-old tradition meets modern competition, magic happens. Here's everything you need to know about the most unique athletic event coming to Wisconsin this fall.
Picture this: a moving boat glides across pristine lake waters while an athlete leaps onto a wooden dock, sprints to deliver mail, then races back to jump aboard before being left behind. It sounds like something from an adventure movie, but for over 100 years, this has been daily life on Lake Geneva.
Now, Red Bull is transforming this beloved local tradition into an electrifying competition that anyone can join. Red Bull Rush Delivery isn't just another sporting event—it's a celebration of American heritage with a modern twist that promises to get your adrenaline pumping.
What Makes This Event Special
The Heritage: Lake Geneva's mail delivery tradition represents one of America's last remaining mailboat services. For generations, skilled mail runners have served lakeside residents by leaping from moving boats, making deliveries, and racing back aboard—all while tourists and locals watch in amazement.
The Innovation: Red Bull has condensed this sprawling tradition (which normally covers 75 lakeside homes) into an intense, spectator-friendly competition using two specially constructed docks at Riviera Beach. The result? All the thrills of the original tradition, amplified for maximum excitement.
The Community: "We're proud of our Lake Geneva history and traditions, and our skilled mailboat jumpers are one of America's last remaining mailboat deliveries," says Bill Gage Jr., third-generation owner of Lake Geneva Cruise Line. This event represents a beautiful partnership between preserving tradition and creating new memories.
How the Competition Works
The Format
40 total competitors race in pairs
Each athlete gets one chance to record their best time
Jump from a moving boat, deliver mail to the dock, sprint back and reboard
Top 10 finishers advance to the championship round
The Final Challenge
The championship round cranks up the difficulty. Finalists will navigate the same course but with everyday obstacles scattered across the docks—think flower planters, boating gear, and other items that mirror what real mail runners encounter during their summer routes. This final test separates the fast from the fearless.
Event Details You Need to Know
📅 When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Doors open: 11:00 AM
Competition begins: 12:00 PM
📍 Where: Riviera Beach, Lake Geneva
Address: 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI
💰 Cost: Completely FREE admission
🏃♂️ Registration: Ready to compete? Register here to secure your spot among the 40 competitors
What to Expect as a Spectator
This isn't your typical sporting event. You'll witness athletes attempting one of America's most unique challenges while enjoying the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva. The combination of skill, speed, and the very real possibility of an unexpected splash makes every jump unmissable.
The condensed format means non-stop action—no waiting between heats or lengthy breaks. With only 40 competitors and a straightforward elimination format, the event maintains intensity from start to finish.
Tips for Competitors
Physical Preparation: This challenge demands explosive speed, agility, and balance. Practice sprint intervals and agility drills. If possible, try jumping between moving surfaces to simulate the boat-to-dock transition.
Mental Game: You get one shot at your qualifying time. Visualize your run, from the leap off the boat through your sprint back. The pressure of a single attempt can be intense.
Safety First: While Red Bull events prioritize safety, remember you're jumping from a moving boat onto a dock, then back again. Come prepared physically and mentally for this unique challenge.
Beyond the Competition
Red Bull Rush Delivery offers more than athletic competition—it's a window into Lake Geneva's rich maritime heritage. Whether you're competing or spectating, you're participating in a celebration of American tradition that few places can offer.
For visitors, Lake Geneva provides the perfect weekend destination. Plan to explore the lake's other attractions, enjoy local dining, and soak in the charm of this historic Wisconsin community.
Making Your Plans
With free admission and a unique format, Red Bull Rush Delivery promises to be one of the most memorable sporting events of the year. Whether you're an athlete looking for an unconventional challenge or a sports fan seeking something completely different, this event delivers.
Mark your calendar for September 20th, and prepare to witness history in the making as Lake Geneva's century-old tradition gets the Red Bull treatment. In a world of conventional competitions, sometimes the most extraordinary events come from the most unexpected places.
Ready to take the leap? Registration is open now for competitors, and spectator admission remains free. See you at the docks.
Event Quick Reference:
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Location: Riviera Beach, Lake Geneva (812 Wrigley Drive)
Time: 11 AM doors, 12 PM start
Admission: Free
Registration: Open now for competitors
On Saturday, September 20th, Red Bull transforms Lake Geneva's legendary 100-year-old mailboat jumping tradition into an electrifying modern competition at Riviera Beach (812 Wrigley Drive).