YAKIMA, Wash. — There’s high-speed action coming to the Yakima Valley August 16th and 17th. State Fair Park & Event Center is making waves – literally – with the introduction of Sprint Boat Racing.
A portion of the fairground’s old horsetrack infield is being transformed into a Sprint Boat course, bringing a brand-new kind of adrenaline-fueled entertainment to the region.
“We have been working on this project for the past two years,” said CEO Kathy Kramer. “It’s so exciting to see this project become a reality. There are countless benefits – not just for State Fair Park, but for the entire Community.”
State Fair Park is partnering with the American Sprint Boat Racing, LLC (ASBR) to produce the event, which is expected to attract 35 - 40 boat racing teams, as well as fans from across the country and internationally.
The former horsetrack at Playfair in Spokane hosted sprint boats abut 25 years ago with a similar course.
This two-day racing format will kick off Saturday, August 16th, with a full day of qualifications, and continue Sunday, August 17th, with rounds of eliminations culminating in the finals — all racing against the clock.
This event is expected to attract more than 3,500 spectators per day, many of whom will travel from outside the region. Visitors are expected to stay in local hotels, dine at area restaurants, and support local businesses – contributing to Yakima’s economy.
“American Sprint Boat Racing is proud to be partnering with State Fair Park to bring Yakima arguably the most exciting motor sport racing in the world. Sprint boat racing is a fast-paced show that completely engages the fans.” said Dan Morrison, President ASBR.
Also known as “Jet Sprint,” racing, this high-speed motorsport originated in New Zealand and is rapidly growing in popularity across the United States. Currently, Sprint Boat tracks exist in Port Angeles, WA; St. John, WA; and soon Lewiston, ID. With the addition of Yakima’s new track, it solidifies a racing circuit for the Pacific Northwest.
Each sprint boat is manned by a driver and a navigator, who must memorize a complex course, known as the “Rotation”, which they are not provided until the day before the event. Navigating shallow channels at extreme speeds demands exceptional skill and coordination between the two-person team. Sprint boats are compact, high-powered jet boats, typically measuring 12 - 14 feet in length, with engines ranging from 500 – 2,000 horsepower. These boats can accelerate from zero to 80 mph in mere seconds, providing a thrilling spectacle for fans.
Tickets — including VIP packages and sponsor tent experiences with info available by visiting statefairpark.org. On-site RV and tent camping will also be available for this event and can be purchased online as well.
Visit ASBR’s website (www.asbracing.com) for a full race schedule.