In Short:
The Oklahoma City Nationals Drag Boat Races began in 2005 as the Ozarka Bricktown Nationals. The event quickly turned into one of the more popular summer attractions but was mired in controversy when canceled in 2007 without refunds. Promoters vowed to honor tickets the following year but no event was held in 2008. Finally, the event returned in 2009. Running in early June, the Oklahoma City Nationals Drag Boat Races include classes of racers from the United States and Canada, a kid's play area and plenty of concessions. It's an awe-inspiring event for the entire family in Oklahoma City.
Location:
The event is held at SW 15th and Portland along the Oklahoma River south of Bricktown.
Parking:
Public parking for the event is on the northwest corner of SW 15th and Portland. Pay parking is also available at multiple lots in Bricktown and downtown.
Ozarka Bricktown Nationals Controversy:
The 2007 edition, an official Centennial event, was scheduled to run from July 13th through the 15th. Due to debris in the water and swift currents, however, the event was canceled for safety reasons. Organizers, instead of offering cash refunds to ticket-buyers, said they would honor tickets at the 2008 event.
The 2008 Bricktown Nationals event was also canceled, this time due to the construction on I-40. Organizers still did not offer refunds for the 2007 event, and many, including the Mayor's office, were displeased.
The 2008 Bricktown Nationals event was also canceled, this time due to the construction on I-40. Organizers still did not offer refunds for the 2007 event, and many, including the Mayor's office, were displeased.
2009 Oklahoma City Nationals:
Now called the Oklahoma City Nationals Drag Boat Races, the event returns in 2009, scheduled for June 5-7. Organizers will, in fact, honor wristbands from the canceled 2007 races. Ticket holders may exchange them for a 2009 voucher at the Ford Center Box Office on April 17th and 18th, 2009 or at the Cox Convention Center Box Office on Saturday, May 30th.
Tickets:
Stay tuned for 2009 ticket information when available. Tickets for previous Oklahoma City Nationals events were $15 on Friday and $20 on Saturday or Sunday. They could be purchased at all O'Reilly Auto Parts stores or all metro 7-11 stores.
Children under the age of 12 were free with paid adult, and active duty military could get free admission on Friday with military I.D.
Children under the age of 12 were free with paid adult, and active duty military could get free admission on Friday with military I.D.
Food and Fun:
In addition to watching the races, past events have included a "Kid Zone" play area on the south bank, and concessions will provide plenty of food and drinks.
Rules and Information:
Pets, bottles, ice chests, outside alcohol and unauthorized motor vehicles are not allowed. Canopies and pop-ups are allowed on the south bank of the river.
