The Idaho Regatta hosts the A.P.B.A. Flatbottom National Championships

It’s that time again. Each summer the best boat racers in the world, along with water sports fans, converge in Burley, Idaho for three days of non-stop crowd-pleasing speed and excitement. Competitors from as far away as England and Australia will compete at this year’s Idaho Regatta marking the 37th consecutive year of roaring fun sanctioned by the American Power Boat Association (A.P.B.A.), the nation’s largest overseer of the sport.

Photo © Jason LugoFor the first time since 1982, Burley’s Regatta will also host the Flatbottom Nationals where the world’s elite will speed across the open waters in pursuit of a national championship. Joining the floatbottoms in separate competitions will be eleven classes of boats with over 60 participants expected.

Burley might seem an unexpected location for such a large event, but Don Moyle and Glen Dilworth saw its potential after traveling nationwide and competing in the water sport. With their help, in 1975, Idaho Regatta began with a course length of 1.25 miles and four lap heats with boats circling the course only inches apart. To the boat running closest to its class record each year go bragging rights and a Moyle mink coat.

“This is a good family-friendly event,” said Mark Moyle who grew up around the races. “Come and watch the fastest in the nation.”

Photo © Jason LugoWith over 3,000 spectators expected to line the banks for the three day event of thundering river racing at the Burley Golf Course Marina, crowds are in for the excitement of boat speeds reaching up to 145 mph.

Photo © Jason LugoIn addition to the Flatbottom National races, 11 diverse classifications will be showcased. These include Super Stock, Pro Stock Runabouts, K Racing Runabouts, Crackerbox, 1 Liter Modified, 2.5 Liter Modified, Grand Nationals, Comp Jets, Sportsman, Amateur and Jet boats.

Check out the thrills and spills on the Snake River and bring the family for some high-octane entertainment. The Idaho Regatta is a community event providing race enthusiasts an adrenaline-pumping good time.

Tips for viewing the races:

  • Come early and choose a good vantage point
  • Prepare for the heat with sunscreen, hats or umbrellas
  • Bring folding chairs
  • Coolers are allowed but with no glass containers (Concessions are onsite)

For more information visit www.idahoregatta.org

Annual Events Include

Friday June 20

Golf Scramble hosted by the Mini-Cassia Chamber.

Morey’s Steakhouse hosts a “Show & Shine” from 6 to 10 p.m. for the public to see the race boats up close and meet their drivers.

Friday June 21

Test time will begin at noon at the marina. Heat racing begins at 5 p.m.

Saturday June 22

Racing action begins at noon at the marina.

Sunday June 23

The awards banquet is open to the public and will be held at Morey’s Steakhouse, June 23th, at 6 p.m. Come and enjoy some fun in the sun and hometown hospitality at the Idaho Regatta!