Webb's Slough Sprint boat races return to St. John

ST. JOHN — Webb’s Slough Race returns to St. John this year on Saturday, June 18, with 25 to 30 boats expected to race.

Whitman County will be represented by one boat this year driven by Clint O’Keefe and navigator Mike Thomas, of St. John.

O’Keefe and Thomas will drive their boat, Dangerous Curves, as number 23 in the race.

“There is something for everyone,” said race and venue owner Amanda Webb, “You’ll meet great people from all over. We have folks that travel from beyond the Pacific Northwest. It's so much fun in person. We have a beautiful venue. We have gorgeous grass and really great food and drink. Everyone is looking for an affordable vacation and getaway and we have that.”

Races will run all day following townwide events the day before.

Friday, June 17, a golf scramble at St. John Golf Course will start at 9 a.m.

Also on friday, Show and Shine will bring all the racers out to flood the street in downtown St. John and give visitors the opportunity to get pictures and meet the racers.

Show and Shine will run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“I would say you don't have to be a motorhead or a NASCAR fan to enjoy this type of racing. This is completely different from any type of racing. It's nonstop, one boat after another, and the qualifying rounds are just as exciting. I know they will have a good time. It's a fun and friendly atmosphere, she said.”

The event will have two beer gardens, food vendors, and retail vendors.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate and online at a cheaper cost.

“Our vendors work really hard to keep prices affordable.We even have $4 beer,” Webb said.

Ages 5 and under are free.

“It's just so fun. It's a one of a kind event. It's just a must-see live event,” she noted.