Crowds cheered as drag boats sped through Thompson Bay as day two of qualifying rounds took place at the Anderson Toyota Thunder On The River Lucas Oil Drag Boat races at Rotary Community Park Saturday morning.

The event brought racers from around the state to compete while spectators showed up to fill their need for speed and to cheer on fellow racers.

At times, speeds averaging more than 260 mph in as little as 3.3 seconds on a 1,000-foot race course added excitement to all who watched.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“It’s the adrenaline rush,” said Danny Ziera, who traveled from Southern California to Lake Havasu City. “I’ve had a love of boats for 10 years now and have seen races all around the western part of the state. I just love it.”

Saturday’s round two qualifying included Personal Water Craft, River Racer, Modified Eliminator, Top-Eliminator, Pro-Eliminator, Quick Eliminator and Pro-Mod.
Followed by Top Fuel Hydro, Top Alcohol Hydro and Top Alcohol Flatt.

Friday began the first qualifying rounds where racer Kayln Funk driving “It’s All About Dad,” from Chandler, placed in first for quantifying rounds in the River Racer competition (PWC) Personal Watercraft category.

“This is my first year,” said Funk. “My husband was a racer for 20 years, so now I’m excited that it’s finally my turn to race.”

“I’ve been racing for four years and I love it,” said Racer Chris Hedland with team “Kill -N-Time” who traveled from Tucson. “I Just love competition.”

“I do this for the love of the sport itself. You just got to love the water said local Lake Havasu City racer Duane Thorton with team “Sunday Show Down.”

Races ran smoother Saturday compared to day one where the boat driven by Todd Plate with team “The Problem Child” sank after a run Friday. The mishap damaged the boat but Plate was unhurt.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

This year’s event is sponsored by Anderson Toyota. Friends and fans also contributed to some of the racers’ expenses and served as sponsors like Kerri Health. who came to show support for a racer in the River Racer Competition.

“This is my first year supporting and sponsoring my friend Kevin’s Boat,” said Heath. “I’m glad to do it because I love what they do.”

Elimination rounds resume Sunday if winds permit in Thompson Bay. Located at Rotary Community Park, 1400 N. Smoketree Ave. The entrance fee is $20. Teens receive a $5 discount. Pre-teens have free admittance when accompanied by a paid adult. Event parking is at Park Avenue and State Route 95, near the Aquatic Center.

For complete scores and results visit www.lucasoildragboats.com.