Boyne Thunder powerboats' roar returns to Northern Michigan waters this weekend

BOYNE CITY — The powerboats of Boyne Thunder are set to roar across Lake Charlevoix this weekend, July 12-13.

This popular event, which attracts thousands of spectators to Northern Michigan, kicks off in Boyne City and spans 150 miles through Charlevoix, Elk Rapids, Northport, Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor.

Hosted by Boyne City Main Street, Boyne Thunder is a powerboat poker run that offers participating enthusiasts a chance to experience the scenery of Northern Michigan and onlookers a chance to watch the colorful vessels fly through the water. In addition to the race, the weekend activities include a Friday Night Street Show in Boyne City.

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With 120 boats signed up this year, the slots for Boyne Thunder always sell out quickly, according to Ingrid Day, director of Boyne City Main Street. The event runs from noon on Friday to noon on Sunday, but boats will begin arriving at Boyne City marinas as early as Wednesday, said Day. They are scheduled to pass through Charlevoix's Round Lake and Pine River Chanel on Saturday morning, July 13.

"It's really wonderful to get caught up in this beautiful event, but I think it's important to remember that it is about the charities," Day said. "We are proud to show off our community and to know that we are making a difference."

Sixty-five percent of the proceeds go to local charities, such as Camp Quality and Challenge Mountain, averaging $150,000 each year. Camp Quality Michigan serves children with cancer and their families by providing year-round programs, experiences and companionship, at no cost. Challenge Mountain connects children, youth and adults living with disabilities to a wide variety of life-enriching recreational, cultural and social opportunities.

Day also emphasized the importance of the event for Boyne City and other Northern Michigan communities, noting its role in bringing in tourists and boosting local businesses.

"We love what this event does for our town and it's a whole lot of fun to watch," she said.

Last year marked the event's 20th anniversary, and Day noted that the group of 11 people who organize the event works even harder for two weeks after Boyne Thunder to ensure the funds are able to be distributed in September.

"We do this for the charities and for Boyne City, but in the end, it really is for Northern Michigan as well," Day said.

For more information, contact Ingrid Day at (231) 582-9009 or visit boynethunder.com.

— Contact reporter Annie Doyle at (231) 675-0099 and adoyle@charlevoixcourier.com