The once familiar sight of powerboats on the Ohio River in New Martinsville will return Sept. 29 and 30.

The roar of motors and cheers of fans will be heard along the Ohio River in New Martinsville once again as powerboat action will return in September.

The New Martinsville Quarter-Mile Records Challenge Committee has announced the APBA sanctioned quarter-mile record run event will be held here Sept. 29-30.

Throughout the powerboat racing season, someone somewhere in the nation drives across the finish line in first place-an accomplishment that is never easy and seldom recorded in powerboat history. Now there is a record book opportunity: a group of loyal and enthusiastic New Martinsville business people and community leaders have joined forces with the national Powerboat Superleague circuit and are offering the APBA teams in the Stock, Inboard, OPC, Offshore, and Junior Class categories the chance to establish and break the APBA quarter-mile straightaway record and add to racing history.

The fresh-water course on the Ohio River at New Martinsville correctly has a reputation of fast water as the local course is the home of 63 national and world records. The APBA has recently allowed a new record for most racing categories: quarter-mile straightaway run. Drivers looking for new opportunities to establish records, break them, and enter the national record books should look no further than New Martinsville.

Drivers always seek consideration of induction into the Hall of Champions. The best way to earn that recognition is to win a national championship or break a record. The latter is certainly possible in New Martinsville this September. Not only will any record setter be thrilled, but the spectators are sure to cheer the accomplishment.

The course is one of APBA’s historic race venues as the first race was held in 1938 and continued through 2003. Not only have those locals who have fond memories of past regattas pined for the return of such an event, the drivers have actually been asking to return to New Martinsville.

Powerboat Superleague, owned and managed by Sam and Sherron Winer of New Martinsville, will conduct the racing, as they do at events throughout the country. However in New Martinsville it is more a labor of love than just another business venture. In fact, they will not get paid for their work on this event. “They want to do something for the community and give back,” said Deanna McConaughey, treasurer of the New Martinsville Quarter-Mile Records Challenge Committee that formed for this endeavor.

They aren’t the only ones who are passionate about this type of event and their community. The committee is a collaborative effort involving the Wetzel County Chamber of Commerce, Wetzel County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Riverfront Development, business owners, Wetzel County Commission, city government, and community volunteers. “It’s interesting to see how people will come together when they have a common cause,” said McConaughey.

While there are additional people on various subcommittees, the board members include Chairman Steve Bohrer, McConaughey, Secretary Dan McConaughey, Sandy Hunt, Santina Vigliotti, Jerry Pallisco, Erica Shiben, Brian Feldmeier, and both Sam and Sherron Winer. Shiben and Sherron Winer are co-chairing the event.

The committee is meeting regularly and working hard to make this event a spectacular return. Right now the biggest task is securing funding. “We’re looking for a big sponsor,” said Deanna McConaughey. Her sister, Vigliotti chimed in, “But we’ll take individual sponsors too!”

Depending on sponsorship dollars raised, the estimated entry fee will be no more than $150 for the larger classes and no more than $35 for the smaller classes. The event is open to all APBA members.

The event is APBA sanction and insured, using all APBA approved officials and timing equipment. There will also be a Powerboat Superleague primary Rescue and Safety Unit and race-designed safety boat on hand.

Powerboat Superleague has a 26-year reputation for professionalism, excellence, safety, and innovation. It is the nation’s and APBA’s oldest professional racing circuit and has been under the same management and ownership, Sam and Sherron Winer, since its inception. Sam serves as race director and Sherron as the risk manager/promotions director. The company is known for running fast, fun, and well-managed events.

Additional activities throughout the city, including racing memorabilia, food, and entertainment, will add to the fun and festivities. Heart-stopping adrenaline-rush record-setting action is absolutely guaranteed.

It might be important to note that while Riverfront Development members are involved in this endeavor, the event will not replace the Festival of Memories put on yearly by that group.

“We’re not even going to consider merging that,” said Deanna McConaughey. The summer festival is always held on the third Saturday of July, which this year is July 21.