Press Release

APBA’s Region 4
Port Deposit, Maryland Race
 Eight weeks Away

With less then eight weeks to race day, the Port Deposit Chamber of Commerce is throttling up their plans for Ragin’ on the River. This first annual American Power Boat Association Inboard Hydroplane & Flatbottom Region 4 race will be held at Marina Park in Port Deposit Maryland, September 4 and 5.  

The APBA sanctioned race will draw over 60 boats competing in 7 different classes.   These racers will come from all over the United States as well as Canada. This event is expected to compliment the already popular Cambridge and Kent Narrows races that will be held earlier in the summer. 

 Grand Marshall, the Honorable Delegate David Rudolph, Maryland House of Delegates, District 34B will lead the opening ceremonies on September 4 at 11:00 AM.  Also taking part in the opening ceremonies are Rob Flayhart, Mayor of Port Deposit, John Leeds, Port Deposit Chamber of Commerce President and Thomas Knight, Port Deposit Chamber of Commerce Race Chairman.   

Spectator parking is provided by the Water Witch Fire Company at Station 72 Woodlawn on SR 276,  Jacob Tome Highway.  Shuttle buses will run to and from the race site from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM. 

 General admission, which includes an event program, is $5.00, no charge for children, 12 and under, accompanied by a paying adult.  Pit passes will be available to purchase for those who wish to enter the “pits”.  This is the secured area in South Marina Park where the racers and their boats pass the time between classes.  Those admitted to the pit area must wear closed toed shoes.  

 “We are thrilled to announce our major race sponsors to date include; Cornwall Aluminum, The Nor’Easter, Clark Turner Companies, Port Deposit VFW Post 8185, Buck Algonquin, First National Bank of North East, and The Mariner. We are also receiving support from many local businesses.  All sponsors will be listed in the “Ragin’ on the River” event program and announced during the races.” said Race Chairman Tom Knight representing the sponsoring organization, The Port Deposit Chamber of Commerce.  “This event is a collaborative effort between the Town of Port Deposit and many of the Town’s non-profit organizations.“ Knight added.

 Spectators viewing the race on the Susquehanna River by boat,  can be shuttled to Marina Park by the “Chessie” river taxi provided run Elk River Tours.  Nor’Easter models will be on the water marketing tee shirts and other race memorabilia. 

 Slips for overnight dockage are available through the Tome’s Landing Marina Association.  Slips with water and electric are limited and will be available on a first come first served basis.  For reservations, please contact Diane Jackson at Tome’s Landing Marina, 410-378-3343.

 The Port Deposit VFW Post 8185 is planning a dinner dance, on Saturday, September 4 to compliment “Ragin’”.   Tickets can be purchased at the VFW or at the race on Saturday.

 “Ragin’ on the River”, Port Deposit’s jewel is seeking race sponsors as well as food and craft vendors.  For additional information, please call Port Deposit Chamber of Commerce Representatives Tom Knight at 410-935-1306 or Linda Read at 717-278-1152.  For updates on “Ragin’” and other APBA news, please visit www.portdeposit.com, www.goboatracing.net and www.apbaregion4.com.  A portion the race proceeds will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Cecil County.

Change in the Addtional parking.
 The parking will now be held at the WWFD and not Bainbridge. There will be shuttle busses running from WWFD to Marina Park on Sat and Sun starting at 10am with the last run back at 8pm.