TANGENT - The event that organizers describe as "non-stop, elimination-based, hair-raising" and "one of the most exciting forms of racing that exists" is coming back to Tangent this weekend. Gates for the sprint boat races open at 8 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at the "Field of Dreams" facility.

Qualifying races start at 10 a.m., followed by eliminations starting at 1 p.m.

Oregon Jet Sprint is the company behind these races. Organizer Kyle Patrick said dozens of competitors from all over the United States are expected to compete in the event, one of several in the sprint boat series.

Other races in the series are held in Phoenix, Ariz., Grants Pass, and St. John and Port Angeles, Wash.

Using NASCAR-style American V-8 power plants, the participants race 13-foot aluminum-hulled boats around a 12- to 18-foot-wide, water-filled track at speeds up to 80 miles per hour. The boats range from 300 to 1,000 horsepower.

Bleacher seating is available, but attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs as well. Outside food, beverages and coolers are not allowed. There are food concessions and a beer garden on site, as well as commercial vendors.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for youth 6 to 17, and free for kids 5 and under. Parking is $2 per vehicle. Tickets are available at the gate or online at ticketswestrdln.com. Click "Sports Events," then scroll down to "Oregon Jet Sprint Boat Racing."

To get to the track from I-5, take exit 228 east one mile to Seven Mile Lane. Turn south and travel approximately three miles to Ridge Road. Turn west on Ridge, then south on Wirth Road. Take Witt Road to the track.

Democrat-Herald