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Boyne Thunder: 140 MPH Boats Race for Charity
6 Jul
Summary
- Over 120 high-performance boats participate in the charity event.
- Proceeds benefit children's cancer camps and adaptive recreation programs.
- Event includes a 150-mile poker run and a vibrant street festival.
The Boyne Thunder charity powerboat poker run and community festival is set to return on July 10-11. This 23rd annual event will showcase approximately 120 high-performance boats, some reaching speeds over 140 mph, navigating a roughly 150-mile route through local bays and lakes.
Participants collect poker cards at designated stops along Lake Charlevoix, Lake Michigan, Grand Traverse Bay, and Little Traverse Bay. The event aims to raise funds for charitable organizations, including Camp Quality for children with cancer and Challenge Mountain, which provides adaptive recreation programs.
The festival extends beyond the water, with downtown Boyne City hosting the Boyne Thunder Street Show on Friday evening. This vibrant street festival, running from 6-9:30 p.m., often attracts up to 20,000 visitors and features displayed boats, vendors, and sponsor exhibits.
The poker run officially begins Saturday morning, with volunteer boats providing support and monitoring participants. Event organizers emphasize the community and charitable aspects, highlighting the event's dual purpose of supporting local causes and showcasing the region's beautiful waterways.
