Serious News
What's Happening
SHEBOYGAN – The powerboat racing event that has taken place along Sheboygan's shore for the last three summers will not be coming back in August.
The Midwest Challenge Powerboat Races have been canceled by the International Hot Rod Association because it can't provide the "necessary staffing and operational support required to safely and successfully host the event," according to an update from the city of Sheboygan.
The city said it was notified of the cancellation July 13.
The races were supposed to return Aug. 8-9.
IHRA acquired Powerboat P1 USA and P1 Offshore, which previously put on the Midwest Challenge, last October.
“This is an incredibly disappointing outcome for our community, local businesses and the many fans who look forward to this event each year," Mayor Ryan Sorenson said in a news release.
The powerboat races debuted in 2023, drawing about 43,000 attendees and $4.7 million in visitor spending.
In 2024 — 21,000 spectators and more than $3.3 million in visitor spending.
The Midwest Challenge Powerboat Races have been canceled by the International Hot Rod Association because it can't provide the "necessary staffing and operational support required to safely and successfully host the event," according to an update from the city of Sheboygan.
The city said it was notified of the cancellation July 13.
The races were supposed to return Aug. 8-9.
IHRA acquired Powerboat P1 USA and P1 Offshore, which previously put on the Midwest Challenge, last October.
“This is an incredibly disappointing outcome for our community, local businesses and the many fans who look forward to this event each year," Mayor Ryan Sorenson said in a news release.
The powerboat races debuted in 2023, drawing about 43,000 attendees and $4.7 million in visitor spending.
In 2024 — 21,000 spectators and more than $3.3 million in visitor spending.
