BY TRACY LEE TATE
Times Editor
LAKE BUTLER — For the third time, on April 9, drag racing boats took to the water in Lake Butler, with all drivers expressing their favor of the lake and their disfavor with the wind.
Seventy-nine brightly colored boats, competing in nine classes (Formula 1, Formula 2, River Racer, Unlimited, Pro-Mod 1250, 1400 Carb, Bass and Ski, V-6 Pro and Pro-Mod 1400) were ordered into pairs to race down the marked course. Speeds varied, with some classes reaching for the 100 mph mark. Drivers of all levels competed, each in their class, with the races run as double eliminations – meaning that each driver had to lose two races to be eliminated from the event. The boats ranged from stock (like anyone would take out fishing on a weekend) to several different modified types based on weight, engine displacement, hull configuration and fuel system/type.
The wind was brisk for most of the race, with nearby vendors tents trying, and sometimes partially succeeding, to take flight. A number of food vendors and trucks provided a variety of treats and meals for the spectators and competitors. The Union County Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services were on hand in case of a problem.
A problem did in fact occur, on the Friday before race day, when a boats performance was effected by the wind, injuring the driver, Charlie Hunt, and took him out of competition. Race organizers asked all present to take the time to offer good wishes and prayers for Hunt’s speedy recovery and return to competition.
The spectators were a varied lot, with single people, couples and families all enjoying the lake and sunny weather. Most seemed to be from out-of-town, however, coming from as far away and Sebring and points south to watch the races.
City Commissioner David Stegall was on hand for the races and said the out-of-town attendance was something the city had been hoping for. He said that the city hoped local residents would choose to come out and enjoy the show, but also hoped that people from the surrounding area and other locales would come for the race and see the recreational possibilities of the lake and plan to return, pumping money into the local economy by patronizing the stores and restaurants.
About 350 people came and went throughout the afternoon, watching the races, patronizing the food vendors and shopping with local artists, food providers and other vendors arranged around the perimeter of Lakeside Park.
The races are now part of the Southern Outlaw Dragboat Association (SODA) and are a part of their regular schedule. Organizers said they were very impressed with the lake and the city as a venue for their sport and found the local people friendly and welcoming.
