How the “Rooster Tail” Got Its Name
Like fast boats.? The 103rd APBA Gold Cup races return to Belle Ile this weekend. I went for the first time three years ago and I have to say, after watching one of these magnificent unlimited hydroplanes almost flip and tear off it’s starboard sponson, I was hooked. The huge rooster tails, the roar of the engines as they race by the fans on both sides of the river is captivating. I’ll admit it. I’m a whimp. I don’t like to go fast on the water. Off-shore’s always scare me. Can you imagine what it takes to be inside, (and I mean inside cuz’ they are sealed in like a jet pilot) one of these boats at over 100mph? Ah, no thanks! I’ll be the one watching from shore, enjoying adult beverages with friends at the DYC.
Although you can watch the races from many locations both from the city side and Belle Ile, the best view by far has always been from the Rooster Tail located at 100 Marquette about a mile from Grosse Pointe. Tickets go from $50 to $150 for the two day event. For more information, call 313-822-1234.
I first went in the late 1970s, when many of the boats were still using huge aircraft engines rather than the turbines they use now. Talk about loud!!! The whole island shook when they rocketed by.