Coast Guard sets rules for Battle on the Bay Powerboat Race

The Coast Guard is issuing temporary regulations for boaters in the vicinity of the Battle on the Bay Powerboat Race near Smith Point Park on Aug. 25 and 26.

Citing safety concerns, the Coast Guard set forth three regulated areas on the Atlantic Ocean for the duration of the race. The Regatta Course Area will be “for the exclusive use of registered regatta participants, safety and support vessels,” while a No Entry Area and a Spectator Viewing Area will also be designated. The spectator area is “for the exclusive use of spectator vessels. The sponsor will mark this area with white striped blue buoys,” the Coast Guard said.

The regulations will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days of the race.

“Because a number of spectator vessels are expected to congregate around the location of this event, these regulated areas are needed to protect both spectators and participants from the safety hazards created by them including powerboats traveling at high speeds,” the Coast Guard said.

About 5,000 spectators are anticipated for the race, which will “feature six classes of offshore powerboats including vessels from the Extreme Class which can reach speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour,” according to the Coast Guard.