Tubbers get ready to rumble.
Those wanting to compete in the upcoming, bigger and better second annual Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race hosted by the Summerland Yacht Club Aug. 20 should soon be getting their tubs in gear according to organizer and club member Jim Cavin.
In addition to a new location, the event has been moved to Powell Beach on the north shore of Trout Creek, there will be plenty more family activities to make it just as much fun for spectators as it is for the racers, making it a true community event.
The sandy beach and deeper water off Powell Beach were key factors in the decision to switch venues from last year’s Peach Orchard Park location for the race in which competitors go head to head on the course which has been changed for the spectators viewing pleasure.
It will now be a triangle, from Powell Beach to Crescent Beach to Naramata and back three times which will add eight miles.
It is expected there will be at least 20 tubbers competing in the main event which was won in 2015 by Summerland realtor Mike Stohler. Also included this year will be a barbecue, dinner, silent auction and plenty more.
As part of its commitment to the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation, proceeds will again go to the foundation’s $20 million campaign to equip the new patient care tower. Last year $18,444 was raised.
Back again this year will be the fun circuit race which organizers have dubbed the Putt-Putt, Paddle or Pull competition, open to anyone with a craft that will float.
“Last year we had a number of people wanting to take part, but did not have the material to build something within the rules,” said Cavin. “This year we have come up with a competition everyone can take part in.”
No motor? No problem, Cavin added. The fastest entry in the two-mile recreational race may not win. So long as a craft floats and moves somehow, it is in the running.
“Canoe, kayak, floatie, home-built barge – whatever. Dress it up, get some pledges and you’re in,” he said. “And don’t forget your water blaster.”
Entry deadline is August 12, with a free water blaster to the first 10 entries.
The competitive race is more restrictive. A bathtub at least 48 inches long and 12 inches deep — either real or constructed from a mold using fibreglass or some similar material — must be visible above any decking.
Motors must be less than 10 horsepower and come equipped with a kill switch safety lanyard. The Yacht Club will also have escort boats on the course.
All entry fees, admission fees and silent auction proceeds go to the foundation. Any event sponsorship funds remaining after the event will also be donated.
To register or for more information go to www.Ogopogobathtubrace.com.