Jet ski racing comes to Soap Lake

SOAP LAKE - The inaugural Lava Lap Regatta will bring more than 20 jet ski teams to town Saturday and Sunday for two days of racing.

Races begin at about 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday at East Beach Park, next to SR 17. It's the first race of the season, said Roger Harnack, Northwest Jet Sports Association circuit organizer.

Racers will compete in novice, expert and professional classes, and a beginner class is open to entrants with a certified off-road helmet and life vest. All racers must be members of the International Jet Sports Boaters Association. "Aspiring racers can 'run what they brung' in beginner ski and runabout events," Harnack said.

There are separate classes for men, women and youth (juniors).

Freestyle riders are scheduled to compete as well; they'll be doing a variety of tricks, possibly including back flips and barrel rolls.

The race originally was scheduled for Issaquah, but insurance issues forced organizers to find a new venue, Harnack said. The venue actually may be good for the racing. "Soap Lake used to have a reputation of being the fastest lake in the state," he said.

The minerals that made Soap Lake a spa also make it fast. "The water has almost a bath oil feel to it. Which means reduced friction and higher speeds," Harnack said. It also means turns are trickier, especially coming into the first turn, he said.

The race card also includes high-performance standup skis and a vintage class.

The pits will be open for fans to meet racers and ask questions about personal watercraft. A "meet and greet" social, where spectators can meet the racers and owners, is scheduled for Saturday, about 90 minutes after the last heat, Harnack said.