Rain Leaves Drag Boat Fans Disappointed

The rainy weather has put a damper on a big weekend event. Drag Boat races scheduled for Chouteau Bend set for this weekend are cancelled. Organizers had no other choice because heavy rain has made water conditions unsafe.

News On 6 anchor Craig Day reports it means thousands of disappointed fans and hundreds of thousands for the economy in Mayes County.

Things along the upper end of Fort Gibson Lake are quiet and peaceful. But for folks at Chouteau Bend, it's too quiet and too peaceful. They would prefer the roar and excitement of boats drag racing on the water.

The National Drag Boat Racing Association intended to hold races at Chouteau Bend this weekend. But the weather isn't cooperating, so the races are canceled. Up to 10,000 fans were expected.

"We have reservations from people from California, Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas," said Angie Brewster.

Heavy rain has raised the water level flowing from the Grand River by about six feet in the past few days.

"All that rainwater, they just can't stop it," said Anthony Brewster.

Some parts of the area got seven inches of rain. That makes it unsafe for drag boats that reach speeds of 100 miles an hour.

"The boat racers, they can't have any water flow at all," said Anthony Brewster.

Typically, events like the one that was scheduled for the weekend, would generate about a half million dollars for the local economy.  Hotels would be booked for miles around; people from out of town would pack area restaurants.  But now with the high water and the rain, that isn't going to happen.

That means it will be quiet and peaceful at those businesses, including the Chouteau Bend store. The store makes as much money during the weekend races, as it makes the entire rest of the year.

"They say the way to end a drought is schedule a boat race," said Angie Brewster.

Organizers say the races can't be rescheduled for another summer date, but will be held in August of next year.

Drag boat racers from eight states, including California, Florida and Maine were also set to compete at the event at Chouteau Bend.