West Michigan Offshore Postpones Event Registration

ByMatt Trulio

High-performance powerboat enthusiasts eager to sign up for West Michigan Offshore‘s two premiere events in June and July—Muskegon Powerboat Weekend and Rock the Coast—will have to wait. Announced today in a press release from the club, the organizers have decided to hold off opening registration, which they hope to begin in May.

Both events, however, remain on the West Michigan Offshore schedule.

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Though Rock the Coast and Muskegon Powerboat Weekend remain on the West Michigan Offshore schedule, neither will be open for sign-ups until May at the earliest. Photo from the 2019 Rock the Coast event by Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

“We hope that by postponing registration, we will be better able to calculate the impact of current events and allow ample time to make mindful decisions as we adapt during these challenging times,” said Roger Zuidema, the president of the organization. “We are committed to the safety and well-being of the entire club.”

In addition to measures being taken to combat the novel coronavirus, Lake Michigan’s rising water levels continue to be a concern, particularly for early season events. According to information supplied by the Army Corps of Engineers, the release stated, the average lake water level for the Michigan-Huron basin was 581.56 feet. The mark is more than 17 inches above February 2019 levels and nearly six inches higher than the previous record level set in 1986.

Originally set for April 18, West Michigan Offshore’s Spring Kick-Off Party/Make-A-Wish Auction has been canceled in compliance with state-mandated shelter-in-place restrictions. The club’s May 16 golf outing is still currently on the schedule, “but has been reformatted to a great day of golf and comradery together,” according to the release.

“We will work on fundraising when life and business are back in balance,” Zuidema said. “Now our thoughts and concerns are with our members and business owners and operators. We are fueled to give back and will look for opportunities in the near future.”

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