Hydros for Heroes organizers brief Oak Harbor commission on plans, aim to reduce marina closures

Craig McKenzie, owner and promoter of Hydros for Heroes, told the Oak Harbor Marine Advisory Commission on the commission's March meeting that the ninth annual hydroplane race will return with several operational changes intended to reduce disruption to marina users while keeping the event free to the public.

McKenzie said Hydros for Heroes attracts about 10,000 attendees, more than 50 regional teams and has donated nearly $250,000 back to the community since he formed the nonprofit in 2017. “Proceeds from this event fuel scholarships for aspiring change makers and support the brave men and women who safeguard our communities,” McKenzie said.

The event’s organizers described three operational changes intended to reduce the impact on marina tenants: limiting boat-ramp closure to Saturday and Sunday only, scheduling regular intermissions so some boats can enter and exit, and asking the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to manage channel oversight so Marina staff can focus on onshore operations. Organizers also said they are recruiting more volunteer boats and local pilot boats to escort marina users through…