There will be no shortage of action on the Ohio River this weekend, as the Owensboro HydroFair is finally here after a long and much-anticipated wait. It’s been more than four decades since the city has hosted the event, and officials are excited for the return.
Already expected to draw thousands, the HydroFair turned into an even more high-profile event in March after being designated to host the North American Championships for the American Powerboat Association.
The races are supposed to be “bigger and better than ever,” with more than 60 teams from all over the U.S. and Canada competing for the 2021 titles in seven race classes.
The action begins today with hydroplane testing from 1-5 p.m. Qualifying races will take place from 1-4 p.m. Saturday and 10-1 p.m Sunday. Championship races are scheduled for 1-4 p.m. Sunday.
These boats can reach speeds of up to 170 mph, spraying water high as they race around the track, which is a 1.25-mile loop that will begin and end in front of the Owensboro Convention Center and drivers will cycle the track four times.
After testing Friday, competitors will be available for the community to meet during a portion of Friday After 5. The community can meet the HydroFair drivers and crew at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum backyard from 6:30-7:30 p.m. From 6:30-10 p.m., they can see the Miss Owensboro boat or hop in the “Learn to Drive Me” hydroplane. There will also be an official HydroFair merchandise trailer on site
After qualifying on Saturday, the city will host a pyromusical performance of synchronized lighting on the Owensboro Bridge, music, and a fireworks display. Lights on the Ohio will begin at 8:15 p.m. and will take place alongside the City of Owensboro’s weekly summer concert series Live on the Banks, which features live music from 7-9 p.m. in Smothers Park.
More information for the 2021 Owensboro HydroFair presented by Jagoe Homes can be found on the HydroFair website.
