Newsweek In The Powerboat Nation—July 11-18

We’re in the thick of it now, as the saying goes, because boating-event season is raging. On any given weekend, there are two and sometimes three or even four significant go-fast boating events. This news cycle, for example, started with the Boyne Thunder Poker Run in Northern Michigan and is ending with the 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run in Upstate New York. Chances are, you have already enjoyed an organized event or will in the next few weeks. That may have pulled you away from your reading, but don’t worry. The last seven days of high-performance boating news is right here at your fingertips.

Friday, July 17

PBN-Exclusive—Why Street Parties Beat Boat Shows

Street celebrations and exhibits provide winning experiences for would-be powerboat buyers and builders.

Bonding In Clayton—Taking It To The Street

Last night’s 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run celebration in downtown Clayton, N.Y., was another gem.

Thursday, July 17

PBN Exclusive—Donzi, Parties Of Two

The 61-year-brand is still being celebrated.

Jackhammer/Manatee Marine Factory Stock Raceboat To Debut At Great Lakes Grand Prix

The new Jackhammer/Manatee Marine raceboat is ready for its first Factory Stock race early next month in Michigan City, Ind.

Power-Couples And More Cruise Into The 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run

The ninth annual 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run kicked off with a fine sunset cruise on the St. Lawrence River.

Donzi Owners Group Returning To Lake St. Clair For Fourth Annual Fun Run

A brand-celebration in Michigan is on tap next weekend.

Nor-Tech At 35—Triple 557s For A 390

Remember when 1,500 hp or more on the back of a Nor-Tech center console was unusual?

Wednesday, July 16

PBN Exclusive—Lake Powell Challenge To Benefit America’s Mighty Warriors Organization

Coming back strong with a new beneficiary.

Quick Take—Rolling On Lake Winnipesaukee In A 32 Victory Pleasure Cat

One of two pleasure versions ever created by the Dubai-based builder.

Tuesday, July 15

PBN Exclusive—The Snooks Get Saucy

There are several products in the Snook Sauce boat-cleaning and detailing line.

Counting Down To BFD Fun Run No. 8

Brand-passion drives the annual Baja, Fountain and Donzi happening.

Deep Impact 499 ‘Summer Tour’ Rolls Into Boyne Thunder

The second Deep Impact 499 was a show-stealer last weekend during the Boyne Thunder Poker Run.

Deep Impact is continuing its summer tour with its second new 499 center console. Photo by Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

Monday, July 14

Boyne Thunder Rises Above The Clouds

Despite morning rainfall, the vaunted poker run continued.

2025 Lake Of The Ozarks Shootout Racer Registration Now Open

Sign-ups start now.

Registration for the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout is open. Photos by Photo by Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

Sunday, July 13


Rushing To Slow Down At The 24th Annual HK Motorsports Land And Lake Poker Run

A record-setting event celebrated on one of the world’s most beautiful waterway.

Saturday, July 12


Englewood Beach Waterfest To Host APBA Offshore World Championships Finale

Englewood Beach Waterfest will host its first APBA Offshore World Championship races in October.

The Skater 36 Tour—Four Characters In (Temporary) Search Of An Author

There are more adventures ahead this season for LaMorte and company his immaculate catamaran.

Friday, July 11

PBN Exclusive—The Marketing Moxie Of Good Boy Vodka’s Alex Pratt

In just five years, Alex Pratt has a built a powerhouse spirit and pre-made cocktail brand with national distribution.

Mod-V Racers Take Boat Construction Into Their Own Hands

Mod-V class veterans Travis Pettko and Charlie McCarthy wanted new raceboats, so they built their own.

Boyne Thunder 2025, Part I—What If You Threw A Party And Everyone And His Cousin Came?

The Bay Harbor Fun Run and Boyne Mountain Resort Welcome Celebration started the 2025 Boyne Thunder Poker Run with a bang.

—Compiled by Matt Trulio


The 2025 Boyne Thunder Poker Run beat challenging weather to succeed. Photo by Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.