Spectators will see more than 20 powerboats compete throughout the weekend.
Teams began arriving to Champions Lake Wednesday morning.
A California team arrived early Wednesday to begin testing their boats. They stayed at a hotel on the outskirts of Springfield because other hotels were already booked for the weekend.
Teams will continue to arrive and test their boats throughout the day on Friday. The last practice race will begin at 5:30 p.m. and tickets are not required.
However, on Saturday and Sunday tickets are required and will be sold at the gate. Admission is $15 for adults. Children 12 and under are free.
READ: 4Hers show off big rabbits at Champaign County Fair
Saturday will be a busy day with heat races during the day, followed by an evening concert. “Saving Pluto,” will perform on the bank of the lake. The concert is included with the purchase of an admission ticket.
Sunday will wrap up the races with the boating finals.
“If you like NASCAR, if you like racing, you’ve seen nothing like this,” said Dean Blair, Executive Director of the Clark County Fairgrounds.
The boats competing are called tunnel boats. They are able to reach speeds up to 135 mph going into turns and 100 mph going out of turns.
READ: John Legend, other celebrities show support for community after Dayton mass shooting
“Tunnel boats are very different than a hydroplane, which is more like throwing a frisbee where it scoots across the water,” said Blair. “These boats turn instantaneously and it’s just amazing if you’ve not seen it to see what takes place.”
Boating companies from all over the state have traveled to Springfield to show racers different equipment.
A propeller company from Pennsylvania arrived Wednesday morning, so racers could try their different propeller designs before competing.
If guests are hungry while watching the boat races, fair food and other food vendors will be on-site.
“Come out and support this great event in our community,” Blair said in encouraging Clark County residents to attend.
About the Author