Hampton Cup Regatta

August 14-16, 2009

The nation's oldest continuously running hydroplane boat race, the Hampton Cup Regatta, will celebrate its 83rd anniversary Aug. 14-16. The Hampton-based competition takes place on Mill Creek near the entrance to Fort Monroe and boasts more than 70 hydroplanes and Jersey Speed Skiffs from the United States and Canada.

The races will feature some of the fastest watercraft in the world at more than 150 mph. Best of all, the Hampton Cup Regatta is one of the last remaining boat races in the country free of charge.

Other event festivities include food and beverage vendors, souvenir programs, a children's area, a special "Bash at the Bridge" party Friday night, and racing-enthusiast clothing and collectibles. Lawn chairs are highly encouraged as bleacher seating is limited. Coolers, pets, bikes and skateboards are not permitted.

Races start at noon and end at 5 p.m. daily in Mill Creek, located at the entrance of Fort Monroe from the East Mercury Boulevard bridge in Hampton.

For more information, go to http://www.hamptoncupregatta.org or call (757) 727-8311. - Andy Thompson.