Gar Wood Classic poised to roar on off Algonac shoreline
Organizer: Groups close to ensuring race will endure

By CRAIG DAVISON
Times Herald


ALGONAC- Organizers of the 2006 Gar Wood Classic said they're on the verge of closing a deal with two offshore powerboat racing associations that could keep the race going through 2009.

Beth Engel, president of the local Algonac-Clay Offshore Racing Association, said she met during the weekend with officials from the Offshore Powerboat Association, who were in the area for the St. Clair River Classic in St. Clair.

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Engel said she expects a final deal to be made in the next two weeks between the Algonac-Clay group, the Offshore Powerboat Association and the Offshore Series, which did not participate in this year's race.

The deal would include a date for next year's race and the possibility of an end to the city's spotty his- tory with St. Clair River races.

The city has hosted on-again and off-again boat races along its shoreline in recent years.

This year's race, which drew about 10,000 people, was the first since 2004.

"We're definitely having the races back in Algonac," Engel said.

"We're trying to work out a good date for everybody."

City Manager Chris Wilson said he is looking forward to having the race back in Algonac.

"We were very pleased with the way the races went this year," Wilson said.

Residents also think the event is good for the city.

Melissa Carrow, 22, of Algonac said although there were parking issues for her this year - she lives in an apartment across the street from Riverfront Park - the race is good for the community.

"It gives something for the kids to do," Carrow said.

Contact Craig Davison at (810) 989-6276 or cdavison@gannett. com.


Originally published August 1, 2006