BY TRACY LEE TATE
Times Editor
The Southern Outlaw Dragboat Association (SODA) returned to Lake Butler for the second time this past weekend and for the fourth time overall.
The races first came to Lake Butler four years ago when the association was looking for a new location to hold an unsanctioned practice event. They loved the lake and asked to come back and have been doing so ever since, but this is the first year they have come twice in one season.
Racers from 10 or more states travel to Lake Butler to compete, with the majority from Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North and South Carolina, but others from further away. The boats race in classes based on construction and motor performance/type.
The event costs the City of Lake Butler nothing and has the potential to bring dollars to local merchants. SODA provides its own insurance for the event. Spectators, very few local, travel with the circuit to cheer their favorites on and enjoy the summer weather.
During the event, the lake is closed to private boats due to safety concerns and there are ample security and safety measures taken.
This event the number of boats seemed to be the same as in previous events, but the crowd seemed a little smaller – this time of year the event is competing with football and other family activities, which, along with the economy, may have had a negative effect on attendance. But nevertheless, the races went on as planned and those in attendance got the show they came for, and Lake Butler merchants may be a little better off for the effort.
