A major boat race is speeding into Guntersville this weekend!
Hydrofest is back and bringing an economic boom to Marshall County.
Boats of all shapes, sizes and speeds will race all day Saturday and Sunday at Lake Guntersville.
Organizers like Karen Cardwell say the annual event draws more than 25,000 people to Sand Mountain.
"We have people from over 30 states that come to this event," Cardwell said.
She says Hydrofest relies on its volunteers to be successful. Volunteers like Bill Collins who has a motor sports background and a passion for boat racing.
"This is like the Daytona, Talladega, and Indianapolis all wrapped up into one for boat racing," Collins said.
To Collins, this is a big deal. He doesn't race boats, but to satisfy his need for speed, he shuttles folks around for the weekend.
It's a job he enjoys because it get him close to all the action.
And, there's lots of action to get close to.
The event raises about $3 million. That money goes toward Alabama's Lake City and its surrounding areas.
In the last five years, Cardwell says they've made more than $15 million!
With 300 plus volunteers like Collins, the event sails smooth for all to enjoy.
"It's all about adrenaline," Collins said. "I mean, the guys will do anything they can to get in these boats."
Races begin bright and early Saturday morning at eight.
You can find more information about Hydrofest's schedule and ticket sales .
Boats of all different shapes, sizes and speeds will race on Lake Guntersville Saturday and Sunday.
