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Learn to race a boat in time for the Regatta

Training school August 31 at boat launch in Woodward Township

LOCK HAVEN — Learning how to race in the annual 48th Annual Labor Day Weekend Regatta can be a challenge.

Until recently, there’s been no way for newcomers to safely learn how to become involved in stock outboard boat racing without knowing an existing member.

Last year, the Delaware Valley Outboard Racing Association (DVORA) hosted it’s inaugural racing school on the Friday before the traditional Labor Day Weekend Regatta.

Eight drivers, from 9 to 60 years old, completed training on land before taking their turn behind the wheel of a race boat.

The students learned everything from the basics – like safely entering and exiting the boat, how the controls work, what to expect while on the water and how the races are run.

After dry land training, they were fitted with safety gear and turned loose on an abbreviated race course.

With instruction from Dave Deck, the racing school’s lead instructor, the students took turns launching their boats, racing three laps and returning safely to the pits. After everyone had a turn getting a feel for the boat, they were sent out for another three laps to race against the instructor.

“The racing school is a great way to learn how to race,” said Deck.

“These boats are not difficult to drive, but can be a challenge to figure out by yourself. The school provides a safe environment to learn and actually get your feet wet,” he said.

Four of the eight drivers from last year’s school will be competing in the regatta this year.

There is limited space for the 2018 Racing School DVORA which will be hosting the race school again on Friday, August 31 in the pit area near the boat ramp on the Woodward Twp. side of the river.

The $50 tuition covers instruction, safety gear, up to six laps in a race boat, a weekend American Power Boat Association (APBA) membership and DVORA membership.

If anyone is interested in attending, the following items are recommended:

– Wet shoes – closed toe footwear that you don’t mind getting wet, AKA racing shoes. No Crocs, shoes should fit snug so they don’t slip off.

– Extra pair of shoes

– Swimsuit

– Sunscreen

– Bottle of Water or Sports Drink

– Camera

– Gloves (optional)

Contact Chloe Sees at chloe.s.sees@gmail.com or visit dvoraracing.com for more information.

The 48th consecutive Labor Day Regatta will be held from Friday, August 31, to Monday, Sept. 3. Last year 530 boats participated setting a record for the number of boats participating in the Lock Haven Jaycees sponsored event.

It’s anticipated that number will be reached again this year.

Also, two International drivers are coming from England to compete on the Susquehanna River during the four- day event.

This year’s regatta promises to be bigger than usual with highlights including boats from the professional racing category that reach speeds over 100 miles per hour and the Dash for the Cash held Sunday at 12 noon.

Racing starts at 11 p.m. and goes until approximately 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. On Monday, racing is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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