Fast. Really fast. 260 MPH in 3.2 seconds. Fast.

That’s what’s in store for race fans when the Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series (Lucas) stops in Lake Havasu City with the inaugural “Thunder on the River” Oct. 11-13, 2013. Rotary Park is the venue for this televised event and offers close-up race viewing second to none.

RV spots, shoreline EZ-Up sites and VIP cabanas are available, and boat mooring along the race course will be offered — something not available at any other venue in the series.

“Test and Tune” is Friday from 10 am – 4 pm; Friday evening, drivers take their boats to upper McCulloch Blvd. for a “Show & Shine” (5 pm-9 pm). Racers will be on-hand for autographs and you can get an up-close look at these fabulous boats. Qualifying races are Saturday and finals are Sunday from 9am-5pm (both days).

These boats are very exciting to watch, and they definitely satisfy the need for speed for any racing enthusiast. Elaine Cullen, director of Event Marketing for the Lake Havasu City Convention & Visitors Bureau (LHCCVB) added, “The first time I saw the hydros I was in awe. My husband and I have a deck boat that tops out about 45 mph; I can’t imagine the thrill of going 260 mph, especially in such a short distance!

“The LHCCVB is proud to be a sponsor of Thunder on the River; Lake Havasu has a history of boat racing – this is natural fit for our residents and visitors alike. ”

Todd Taylor, Joker’s Wild Productions, is the logistics and event-planning manager for this event and is responsible for creating a venue that enables Lucas to safely run the races. “It’s a logistical challenge with lots of moving parts. I’m very excited to work with Lucas Oil; the TV coverage and the economic benefits will be very positive for Lake Havasu City and introduce yet another type of boat racing to our community.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to http://www.lucasoildragboats.com, or e-mail ttaylor@lucasoildragboats.com.