Robert Moore
April 27, 2007
Specialty Eye Care America following the course of Imhotep
May 1, 2007
When thinking of Morgan City, boat racing might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But nearly two decades ago, that would have been different, as Morgan City regularly hosted a number of boat races each year.
That was until 1989.
In 2004, the Morgan City Power Boat Association brought back an old tradition and hosted the first powerboat race in Morgan City in 15 years.
This year, the Morgan City Power Boat Association will host the Atchafalaya Eastern Divisionals on Saturday, May 26, through Monday, May 28, at the Lake Palourde Parkway.
After a two-year hiatus due to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, powerboat racing is returning to the area on Memorial Day weekend. “They call it the NASCAR on water,” said Carrie Stansbury, executive director for the Cajun Coast Visitor’s and Convention Bureau. “You never know what’s going to happen. A boat could flip, or there could be some records set for powerboat racing.”
The race will bring over 100 participants from around the country to St. Mary Parish. “They’re going to get here probably a couple of days before the event,” said Stansbury. “Once they get here, they’re going to use hotel rooms. Last time, all our hotel rooms were filled from the races. So certainly, there’s an economic impact.”
The one-and-a-quarter mile course will host 13 classes of racing for what is expected to be around 125 boats. The various sanctioned classes include 1.5 Stock, 2.5 Modified, Grand National Hydros, KRR, 1 Liter, 5 Liters, Super Stock, 2.5 Stock, National Mod, Pro Stock, G.P. and Cracker Box.
The racing starts at 9 a.m. and ends at around 4 p.m., each day.
But the racing isn’t the only thing people will be able to enjoy at this family event. “In between races there will be some live music by local bands,” said Stansbury. “There will be food and beverages, and you’ll also have some kid’s activities.”
Included in activities for the young ones will be an event where kids can build a small wooden boat, and race them. Another thing in the “Kiddy Corner” will be a Kid’s Fun Inflatable area.
For those with an eye toward the past, there will be a Morgan City Powerboat Association Historical Tent that will feature photographs and memorabilia from past races. There will also be storytelling by former racers. Each storyteller will be recorded and archived for future generations.
“It’s a family atmosphere,” said Stansbury.
Pre-ticket sales are available for $8 per day, while tickets at the gate are $10 per day. Children 12-years-old and under get in free. For advance tickets, contact the association at (985) 384-3000, Oren Dupre at (985) 498-2926 or the Morgan City Chamber of Commerce at (985) 384-3830.
The Morgan City Power Boat Association is a part of the American Power Boat Association.
