Nikon Lens - UPGRADE

[mjd525]

Nikon Lens Experts....
I am currently using a Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 for taking regatta pictures. It is outstanding for most of the closer lanes of rowing action, but a bit distant for the further lanes and distance shots. What would be the next step up to help with those a bit more further out boats and NOT to spend a fortune.
Thanks for your valued input and suggestions

 

[SCraig]

Nikon 80-400 ~$1,600
Sigma 150-500 ~$1,100
Tamron 200-500 ~??