This unique event used to happen in Rock Falls in the early 1980s through the late 1990s. It made a return in 2014 after local fan Terry Hicks wondered what happened to the races he used to watch as a kid. Thanks to Terry for his work to make this event happen again in Rock Falls, especially as it continues to grow in popularity and attract more spectators.
The stock outboard boat racers compete in several different classes of race boats, ranging in speeds from 35 mph to 80-plus mph. Racers range in age from 9-years-old to 70s and older. They come from Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota to compete at the Rock Falls River Chase.
This race is brought to you by the Marine Racing Club of Illinois and American Power Boat Association, along with several local sponsors. The schedule is as follows:
- Friday, August 16 – Testing from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, August 17 – Racing from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, August 18 – Racing from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event is free to watch and family-friendly. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and sit on the hill at Seward’s Riverside Park, overlooking the Rock River, to watch these racers compete. Food will be available from Brother Daryl’s, Mendoza’s Taco Truck, and Main Squeeze.
For more information, contact Melinda Jones, Director of Rock Falls Tourism, at 815-622-1106 director@visitrockfalls.com, or visit the the Rock Falls River Chase Facebook page.
Photos of last year’s event courtesy of Melinda Jones.
