For the third week in a row more than 400 turtle racers gathered in downtown Longville to try their luck in the racing circle. The rain held off on Aug. 9 so that families and friends could enjoy an afternoon of games, contests, food and fun.
At the end of the day, after 399 racers competed in the regular turtle races, there was a tie for Grand Champion. The title was shared by Kyle Eggert, age 11, of Alexandria, Minnesota, and Coleman McNally, age 14, of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Grand Slowpoke honors went to Davis Wawro, age 13, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
The Chamber Resort Race, with an additional seven racers, was won by Caleb Ackerson, age 6, of Rosemount, Minnesota, representing Diamond Crest Resort.
The Longville Chamber would like to thank everyone who makes the turtle races possible, especially race announcer Dave Adams, his assistants Charlee Stewart and Desirae Phillips, and race judges Tarike, Chase, Addie and Pat. We would also like to recognize the volunteers from VFW Post 772 and Camp Olson YMCA and all the Chamber businesses that support this event.
There are only two turtle races remaining in the 2017 season. Races will be held Wednesdays through Aug. 23 in downtown Longville. Race registration and the contests and games open at 1 p.m. The Chamber Resort Race is held at 2 p.m., followed by the regular turtle races. Race registration is $3, which includes the rental of a turtle (or you can bring your own). Proceeds benefit community activities sponsored by the Longville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.
