September 23-24, the
Hampton Cup Regatta, the oldest continuously running hydroplane race in North America, returns to Mill Creek in Hampton, VA. Join upwards of 25,000 spectators for a weekend of on-the-water thrills, chills, and racing excitement. Up to 80 hydroplanes, flat bottoms, and jersey speed skiffs from the United States and Canada are expected to compete during the 92nd annual event. Learn more at hamptoncupregatta.com. We hope to see you there!
Dates: September 23-24
There will be a kickoff event on the evening of Friday, September 22 at Oozlefinch Brewery in Fort Monroe. A cask of special edition Saison will be on tap in addition to other craft beer favorites. Music by Dew Ballantyne and the Other Medicine begins at 6:30 p.m. Food trucks will also be on site.
Time
Racing starts at approximately 10:30 a.m. (bridge opens around 10 a.m.) and ends by 5 p.m. each day.
If there are weather delays, racing will continue after the rain up until sunset. Races will not be canceled unless there’s a complete rain out.
Location
Mill Creek, at the entrance of Fort Monroe from the East Mercury Boulevard Bridge in Hampton, VA.
Arriving by Boat
Old Point Comfort Marina is within walking distance of the race. Typically no boat spectator fleet, but boats can opt to anchor between the two bridges off Fort Monroe, away from the race course.
Admission
Free!
Seating
Lawn chairs are highly encouraged as bleacher seating is extremely limited. Attendees are also encouraged to bring pop-up tents or umbrellas for shade; however, owners are responsible for securing them and are encouraged to share as needed.
Pits
The pit area will be open all weekend long for visitors to check out boats and meet the drivers. A signed waiver is needed to enter this area and closed-toe shoes must be worn. No smoking and no alcohol in the pits.
Classes
J Stock, 1.5 Liter Stock, 1 Liter Modified, 2.5 Liter Stock, 2.5 Liter Modified, 5 Liter, National Modified, Grand National, Grand Prix, Jersey Speed Skiff, Sportsman Entry, Pro Stock, Super Stock, KRR, and Vintage.
https://youtu.be/hRrBzzlMXcI
On-Site Entertainment
Music by Drew Ballantyne (Saturday) and Zen Mojo (Sunday) will entertain in the main spectator area of the Mercury Blvd Bridge between race heats (2 to 4 p.m. each day). There will be food trucks from Jadean’s Smokin Six-O BBQ, Kona Ice, Papa John’s Pizza, and Super Steve’s Snacks.
Not Allowed
Outside food and beverages, coolers, pets (other than service animals). Bikes, skates, hoverboards, and skateboards are not permitted. Special allowances are made for infants and those with special needs. All bags are subject to search.