One hundred years ago in early August, back when Indian Lake was coming into its own as a summer hot spot, when they predicted “future greatness” and had a local weekly newspaper called “Vacation Land,” Orchard Island hosted speed boat races.

According to the Aug. 7, 1926, issue, “since everybody saw the races we will make no attempt to describe them.”

Everybody.

Definitely sounds like “Vacation Land.”

With names like Lighting, Honeysuckle, Bumble Bee, Bearcat and my favorite Go Get ’Em, the races that entertained the community on that day a century ago were still described as an “opportunity lost.” Why? Because they didn’t get it on film and missed out on “a good advertising stunt.”

Some things never change.

With a nod to “future greatness” and “Vacation Land,” the Sandy Beach Racing Association (SBRA) is bringing championship inboard hydroplane racing to the lake with the 2026 Sandy Beach Hydro Regatta on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 22 and 23, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

The speedboat Honeysuckle is pictured with riders enjoying views of Indian Lake. (LOGAN COUNTY HISTORY CENTER PHOTO)

Pictured sailing on Indian Lake is Bear Cat No. 1 — one of two famous boats known as “The Bearcats” (No. 1 & No. 2) owned by the Archer brothers, Chuck, Collie and Earl Archer. The Bearcats became known as the stunt boats of Indian Lake, thrilling crowds and earning a reputation for speed on the water. (LOGAN COUNTY HISTORY CENTER PHOTO)

SBRA shared this fun tidbit about another historic race day on the lake:

“On Friday, July 17, 1953, thousands gathered along this very shoreline as the Indian Lake Sesquicentennial Committee hosted thrilling outboard hydroplane races. The spray, the speed and the fierce competition created memories that have lasted for generations—and those outboard hydroplanes are still racing today.

“This August, history comes full circle.”

Most of the action will take place on the main race course along the South Bank, from Lakeview Harbor to Indian Head, and is free to the public. While you enjoy the feats of speed and precision on the water, you can enjoy a variety of food truck options along with a Beer Garden.

To watch from the shore, you’re encouraged to take something to sit on as you take your spot. Or you can watch from your boat. Just anchor beyond the spectator safety buoys.

A map of the race layout and spectator areas can be seen viewed below: