SHEBOYGAN – The Midwest Challenge's return to the lakeshore brought in millions in tourism spending and thousands of visitors.  

The Aug. 9-11 boat races spurred more than $3.3 million in visitor spending and more than 21,000 spectators, according to a news release from event sponsor Powerboat P1.

The economic impact was estimated by Visit Sheboygan, which gathered information from lodging properties, hospitality business, crowd counting and determined per-person spending estimates from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism.  

"We are incredibly proud to see the Sheboygan Midwest Challenge return for its second year and make such a tremendous economic impact on our community," Mayor Ryan Sorenson said in a news release.

"Events like this bring exciting, world-class sports to Sheboygan and provide a platform for our local businesses, artisans and hospitality industry to shine on a global stage," the mayor added. 

The Midwest Challenge featured a block party, boat parade, brat fry, various food and drink areas, and two days of racing. A free trolley also drove spectators across the city to viewing and activity areas.  

Powerboat P1 CEO Azam Rangoonwala said Sheboygan's lakefront, lodging, outdoor recreational areas and local government's embrace of offshore racing made it stand out as a venue. The city was also named the 2023 American Power Boat Association's "Best Race Site" for hosting the boat races last summer.  

"We know the city loves showcasing its waterfront and No. 1 natural resource, Lake Michigan, and Mayor Ryan Sorenson's energy and leadership have helped our relationship with Sheboygan continue to grow," Rangoonwala said in a news release. "We are delighted to have a Wisconsin venue on our schedule, less than an hour from Mercury Racing's corporate headquarters." 

Mercury Racing wasn't a sponsor or affiliate this year, but a news release said the Fond du Lac-based marine and automotive parts manufacturer, Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce and Visit Sheboygan partnered with the city.  

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The boat races had a smaller economic impact than its debut last year, with an estimated $4.7 million in visitor spending and about 43,000 spectators over the weekend.  

The Midwest Challenge will return to Sheboygan's lakeshore for the third summer, part of the P1 Offshore series. Dates have not yet been announced.  

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This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: How many people attended Sheboygan powerboat races in 2024?