2010 Thunder on the Ohio [Cancelled]

City drops boat races from Thunder on the Ohio fest

Organizers of Evansville’s annual Thunder on the Ohio festival have decided to drop its signature hydroplane races for the first time in more than 30 years.

Event Chairman Tom Sawyer said the cost of holding the boat races has grown beyond its budget, although he hopes it can resume next year.

The Aug. 20-22 event will be scaled back to a festival with concerts, food booths and other entertainment on the city’s riverfront.

Hydroplane races have been held each summer on the Ohio River at Evansville since 1979. Bringing back the top-level hydroplanes would involve paying a $160,000 purse and insurance costs.

Sawyer said it’s been difficult telling boat owners about the decision, but most understand the situation.