Over 150 boats will take to the water at Chouteau Bend Saturday, Aug. 1, and Sunday, Aug. 2, for the National Drag Boat Association Mid-America Summer Nationals. Top fuel, top fuel hydros and many other types of boats will be on hand for the big event. Some of the top fuel hydros will be racing to set a new world record.

“We should have some boats running in excess of 200 miles per hour,” said Tommy Thompson, local boat racer and promoter of the event. “It will be a show to see with lots of beautiful boats.”

The family friendly event offers lots of opportunities to check out the boats up close and personal. A free show and shine will kickoff the weekend in downtown Chouteau Friday night from 6 to 8 p.m. Once the gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, everyone will have access to the pit area to see the boats prepare for racing.

Ear protection is recommended for the pit area. Fans are encouraged to bring ear plugs but Thompson said, “if they don’t have any we’ll get them some.”

Fans are welcome to bring coolers but nothing larger than 24 inches will be allowed. No glass containers will be permitted. Thompson said there will be plenty of concessions a the event. He also recommended fans bring their lawn chairs and sun block.

Another event scheduled is a special Sunday Church Service beginning at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend the service and the races will follow. Thompson, who has been working with sponsors and Chouteau Bend park owners, said there will be a pastor on hand throughout the racing.

There will also be lots of security. Thompson said many of off duty officers from the area will be working security. A lot of work has been done at the park in preparation for the races. Thompson said the park has been manicured and is very clean. New ramps have been built and Thompson said the Grand River Dam Authority has pledged to work with the event organizers to try to keep the water race ready.

“I really appreciate GRDA,” said Thompson. “The water’s good. If the race gods don’t get mad at us we’ll do fine.”

Thompson works hard to bring the race to Mayes County to help the community.

“I want to bring the community an annual event. I want to book up every hotel, sell out every convenience store,” Thompson said.

The veteran racer also admits that having an event of this caliber only miles from home is also a great incentive to do well in the race.

“It lets me race at home and sleep in my own bed,” Thompson said.

Tickets for the event are $20 for a one day pass or $30 for a weekend pass. Kids 12 and under get in free.

Sponsors for this year’s event are Quantie Sales and Service, First State Bank of Porter, Locust Grove Branch, Klint Pursley Trucking, Rex Marsh Marble, Brewer Construction, LeFarge North America, Fasco Fiberoptics, Jack French and Moorehead Construction.