Boat Races Return to San Angelo Twice in 2023

SAN ANGELO, TX — The boat races will be back twice in 2023 if the San Angelo City Council approves the deal with the Southern Drag Boat Association on Tuesday.

The SDBA is requesting to use the Spring Creek and Middle Concho Parks in addition to the portion of Lake Nasworthy where the boats race. Two racing weekends are proposed for June 23-25 and September 22-24, 2023.

The SDBA proposes to pay the City $10,000 for both events. Several City ordinances are requested to be waived. Those include allowing the SBDA to coordinate camping and parking, to charge entrance gate fees into the parks, permits for street closures, the right to erect tents, allow vendors, and post signs. In addition, the SBDA requests the City relax the “no wake” zones for the racing area. SBDA will submit a “Special Event Application” to the City as part of the agreement.

The City staff reported that SBDA will pay for the direct cost of added security for the event.

The SBDA continued the boat races after Lucas Oil pulled out in 2018. Boat races have happened on Lake Nasworthy since 2006. The sport of drag boat racing is unique for spectators, as you can get up close and personal with the drivers and crews, and see what is involved in racing a boat.

The boat races agreement is on the consent agenda and will automatically pass with the rest of the consent agenda without discussion unless a councilperson pulls the item for discussion.

The June event will be called "Showdown in San Angelo." The September event will be called "The SBDA Season Finals."