Boaters ready to get their motors running

Charlie Fegan's 235.77 mph mark set a Top Fuel Hydro speed record for the Augusta Southern Nationals back in 1999, but a lot has changed since then.

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For starters, Fegan isn't racing - but is now president of the New Mexico-based International Hot Boat Association, which sanctions the annual Savannah River event.

And if Fegan were a betting man, he'd say some of the seasoned drivers lining up for this year's 19th annual event might just eclipse his memorable moment during this weekend's action at Augusta Riverfront Marina.

"There's a lot of bragging going on, that the record just might get broken this year, and it wouldn't surprise me a bit," he said Friday as race officials gathered to welcome drivers, volunteers and sponsors of the three-day event that begins today and ends Sunday afternoon.

Drag boat racing is similar to its land-based counterpart, with high-powered engines that can produce up to 4,500 horsepower. The races are timed over a quarter-mile course, and each boat will be clocked for an elapsed time.

This year's Nationals include a purse of more than $140,000, which is why it's billed as the "world's richest drag boat race." Proceeds from the event benefit Georgia Special Olympics.

"It's been a lot of fun and the event has grown tremendously," said Dayton Sherrouse, the race committee chairman, who noted it takes almost 700 volunteers - and lots of help from sponsors - to make the race a reality.

Thursday night, drivers and crews gathered at National Hills Shopping Center to rev engines and offer Augustans a glimpse of what they will see along the Savannah River this weekend.

Admission is free today as drivers and crews have a "test and tune" day that also includes high-speed runs along the river. Saturday and Sunday tickets are $15 at the gate, $50 for patron badges or $18 for series badges. Children under 10 are admitted free.

Gates open at 8 a.m. each day, with racing throughout the day.

Reach Rob Pavey at 868-1222, ext. 119 or rob.pavey@augustachronicle.com.