Powerboats Bring 'Deck To Deck' Racing To The Detroit River This Weekend (VIDEO)
By Edward Cardenas
DETROIT (CBS Detroit) - The roar of powerboats will return to the Detroit River this weekend for the Detroit River International Powerboat Championships.
This is the first year the event will be in Detroit, with over 40 boats competing.
"Powerboat racing is a part of Detroit's history. Garwood established powerboat manufacturing here in the 1930s and for years they held powerboat races on the Detroit River," says Wes Wyatt Chairman of the races in a release. "It's time to bring back a great tradition, one that is fun for all ages."
The course will stretch between Joe Louis Arena and Chene Park and will be visible from both the United States and Canada.
On Saturday there will be testing on the waters, along with meet and greets with the racing team. Team members will also take part in the ALS ice bucket challenge about 6 p.m. Saturday . Sunday is the final championship race with the presentation of the Mayor's Cup, which will be presented by Mayor Mike Duggan.
"All of our boats are within the same horse power," said Jimmy Jernigan, owner of Steady Pumpin' race boat. "We will finish the race within 30 seconds of the first to last. That is going to be deck to deck racing."
Pits for the race will be located in Milliken State Park, with the race taking place in front of the Riverwalk. No tickets are needed.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to Detroit PAL, The Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund, Wayne County Sheriff Youth & Senior Education Fund and the Detroit Firemen's Fund.
