JASPER, Tenn. – High-speed drag boat racing returns to Nickajack Lake this weekend as the Southern Outlaw Dragboat Association brings the Outboard Nationals back to Marion County Park and Campground this weekend — Saturday and Sunday, October 10–11.
The event, billed as “Thunder on the Lake,” is expected to attract more than 100 racing teams from across the United States and Canada, competing for the National Outboard Championship and a guaranteed $30,000 purse.
The two-day competition, officially known as the Outboard Nationals presented by Palmetto Boats & Composites, is also being held as the Spencer Wayne Memorial Event.
Despite concerns about possible heavy rainfall and storms associated with Hurricane Isaias, organizers say the event is still scheduled to go on as planned.
In a social media update this week, the Southern Outlaw Dragboat Association acknowledged the approaching weather system but expressed confidence that racing could continue.
“We’ve seen the forecast. Jasper, TN is more than 300 miles North of the Gulf and these storms can be extremely unpredictable once they make landfall,” organizers wrote.
“We’re going to have a race. You may get wet at times, but we’ll make the best of it.”
Organizers say their goal is to get all registered boats down the course and crown this year’s Outboard Nationals champions.
The event is open to spectators, who will have an opportunity to watch the high-powered racing boats compete on Nickajack Lake and get an up-close look at the boats and racing teams in the pit area.
Admission is $10, with children ages 12 and under admitted free.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Greater Jasper Jaycees, a local civic organization involved in community activities and charitable projects throughout the area.
With racers traveling from across the United States and Canada, the event is also expected to bring visitors to Jasper and surrounding communities throughout the weekend.
Organizers are encouraging fans to attend, even with the possibility of wet weather.
The Outboard Nationals will take place October 10–11 at Marion County Park and Campground on U.S. Highway 41 in Jasper. Spectators are encouraged to follow the Southern Outlaw Dragboat Association’s social media pages for the latest event updates and any weather-related changes.
