Southern Drag Boat Association, June 17 - 19
Southern Drag Boat Association brings family atmosphere to Grove
By Dekota Gregory, news@grovesun.com
GROVE — More than 100 of the fastest boats in the southern United States will converge on Grand Lake to host the Southern Drag Boat Association on June 17-19 for the 2016 Wolf Creek Nationals Drag Boat Races.
Qualifying races will start at 9 a.m. Saturday and eliminations begin at 12 p.m. Sunday. The association will also host a free Show and Shine from 6-8 p.m. Friday at Wolf Creek Marina. Guests will have an opportunity to see the boats before the races begin and interact with competitors in the race.
“We’re very family oriented,” said Rae Hawks, event coordinator. “The racers are more than willing to take pictures with the kids and adults, let them sit in the boats and talk to them about everything about the boat and everything that goes on with it.”
The Southern Drag Boat Association prides itself in its family atmosphere. Many competitors also have children who race in the “Personal Watercraft 2” division during events. The “Personal Watercraft 2” division was created for teenagers, ages 13-17, and most racers in the division drive sea-doos.
The association also encourages fans to visit the pits during the event to encourage its family atmosphere.
“It’s very family oriented,” Hawks said. “If you get a chance to come out, you’ll understand it. If you’ve ever been to a car race, you’ll see the difference.
“That’s why my husband and I got involved in it.”
Admission is $15 a day or $25 for a weekend pass. Veterans and first responders can buy one ticket and get one free. Children under age 12 are free with a paid adult.
The Grand River Dam Authority Police Department also announced that portions of the Wolf Creek arm of Grand Lake and the boat ramp will be closed during the event. Homeowners will still be able to access their private docks during that time.
For more information about the races, visit www.sdbaracing.com.
http://www.miamiok.com/sports/201606...phere-to-grove
