Offshore Powerboat Grand Prix returns to Point Pleasant Beach

After an absence of several years, the Offshore Powerboat Grand Prix is returning to Point Pleasant Beach.
The event was very poplar at the Jersey Shore during the 1970s and 1980s. It was known as the Indy 500 of Boat racing, although locals typically called it the "Benihana" because the restaurant chain was a long-time sponsor of the race.
People who attended the race or participated in it say that it is like NASCAR and Motocross combined on the water. The race is a four-mile "track" just beyond the breaking waves.
Teams stage their boats at the dry dock along Arnold Avenue in town. Teams come from Florida, Canada and many other areas, including New Jersey.
Although the race falls just outside the traditional summer tourist season, local business owners says that the event is a chance to bring more people to the shore and to their businesses.
In addition to the races, there will also be lot of family fun activities.
The races start at noon this Sunday.