By Janet Cruz

Some of the fastest pleasure and race boats also known as “Fast Cats” took over the Havasu Riviera Marina and Lake Havasu April 26 through 30, at The Super Cat Fest West event. The multi day event was all for a good cause with more than $200,000 funds raised to give away to local charities.

Super Cat Fest West, was founded in 2021 by Alvin Heathman with Speed Boat Magazine. The event began as a gathering of some of the most exotic boats from around the world gathered in one place and has been in Lake Havasu each year ever since.

Photo Courtesy of David Johnson “River Dave”

“It’s both an on land and in water boat show with some of the fastest boats in the country,” said David Johnson, owner of River Dave’s Place and RDP Real Estate. We have a different poker run that is also unique from some of the other events in town. Our first hand deal was $10,000, our second place deal was $5,000 and our third place was $2,500,” he  said.

All participants who purchased at local businesses and sponsored businesses who saved their receipts were entered to win cash.

All Super Cat Fest West participants started the day at Havasu Riviera Marina and later made their way over to The Nautical Inn Beach Front Resort Pool, which hosted the official registration party. Followed by a day of bands, a street party with several vendors, a VIP Penthouse party, a quick run to Pirates Cove, and later ending the multi day event with a kids auction.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Charities who benefitted included; Calvary Christian Academy who received $20,000, Kids on the Colorado received $20,000, Our Lady of the Lake school for their playground received $10,000. Western Arizona Humane Society $20,000, and $10,000 was donated to a family who lost a relative during the event. Havasu Cheer, Mile Markers were also among the beneficiaries.

Photo Courtesy David Johnson “River Dave”

Last year Super Cat Fest West raised $100,000, this year the event surpassed that number resulting in more than $200,000.

“It’s just unbelievable how much support we got from local businesses and people in the community,” Johnson said. “We hope next year we beat that number and raise over $400,000. That is our goal.”