Boat Races - Lake of the Ozarks

Pass me a beer, and another beer for my beer.

Rating:

4 beers out of the six-pack from the cooler in the back of the boat. Friends, good food, and fast boats.

We are the first to admit that we don't know anything about these fast boats other than they are fun to watch as they shoot across the lake. So if you were looking for a gear-head technical write up about the engines, horsepower, and fuel ratios, well... you have come to the wrong place. Now, if you want to hear about the crowd, the margaritas, and the beer... you are in the right place.

These races are all about the friends, family, fast boats, and new friends you just met. The racers all know and support each other on shore and are diehard racers on the water. There is no place better to be on a hot summer day than at the lake and this crowd is no stranger to the lake life. They are laid back and enjoy the good food and drinks on the shoreline. They share stories as they catch up with each other's lives while enjoying the sunshine and cool breezes (it's a drink) off of the water.

No other racing sport allows you to get this close to the the vehicles or the racers. Walk along the staging area as they unload these boats and get a feel for their size, and what it takes to race - they are impressive.

You can walk down to the docs and chat with racers and crews. Get an up close and personal look at the boats and, if you know someone that knows someone, you might even get a ride. It is a great way to spend a warm summer day at the lake. Plenty to eat, drink, and since midwesterners have never met a stranger, you will likely make a number of new friends.

This post should be longer with more detail, like the name of the boat that we took around the lake, but lets be real - The margaritas were flowing and we don't really remember all of the details or what happened to Randy Randerson's shirt or left shoe... whatever, it is a great time.

Tip:

There is a dinner cruise boat that has a morning and an afternoon trip around the raceway. If you are on it at race time, there is no better view of the race.