This July 25-27 will see the 60th running of unlimited hydroplanes on the Columbia River. It’s part of an iconic summer celebration we know as the Tr-City Water Follies, originally begun as a small-town carnival with limited hydroplane races at Sacajawea Park.
In 1965, five local Water Follies leaders — Mark Pence, Wally Reid, Keith Bowers, Jack Hamann, and Ken Maurer — traveled to Lake Tahoe to witness the World Championship Regatta. Inspired by what they saw, they were determined to bring the thrill of unlimited hydroplane racing to the Columbia River. A year later, the first unlimited races were launched with locally owned Neil F. Lampson’s cranes lifting the boats into the river.
In 1981, the Tri-Cities International Air Show became part of the lineup of events including parades, carnivals and the Miss Tri-Cities Pageant. The Water Follies has grown into a world-class spectacle, welcoming more than 65,000 fans each year and generating more than $2.8 million in visitor spending to boost the local economy.
The success of the Tri-City Water Follies is a tribute to thousands of passionate volunteers, generous sponsors, devoted race fans and the enduring support of the community. For details about the 2025 Apollo Gold Cup races and the STCU Over-the-River Air Show, visit waterfollies.com.