Splish, splash: Dyes Inlet site of boat racing bash

The thundering sound of hydroplanes – it’s a sound that locals haven’t heard for years, but this Saturday and Sunday the races are returning.

The quicksilver hydro races and watersports festival is this weekend, Aug. 13-14 at the Silverdale Waterfront and will bring with it a wave of excitement. The free two-day racing expedition will feature 35 boats that will compete in four classes — Unlimited Light, 8-cylinder stock, 8-cylinder modified and 4-cylinder stock. Unlimited Lights feature 509 ci or 468 ci supercharged engines and can reach speeds of 160 mph and are 20 to 26 feet long. The 8-cylinder stock boats get their power from Chevy 305 ci engines and reach at least 16 feet in length. Powered by up to 350 ci engines, the 8-cylinder modified boats are a minimum of 19 feet long. The 4-cylinder stock hydros are the smallest class and are at least 13 feet long and are powered by either Ford’s 2-liter or 2.3-liter engines.

Those wanting to get a closer view of the hydros can purchase individual pit passes for $10 each that are good for the entire weekend. Pit pass holders will be able to enter and exit the “cold” pit area. During scheduled times only, the “hot” pit will be open to pass holders. Pit passes can be purchased at the event in the kiosk next to the pit gate.

There also will be plenty for families to do on the shore. Also onshore are watersports vendors, displays and food.

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